We get it—holiday weekends are full of sweet memories, family time, and… maybe a bit too much sugar (thanks, Easter Bunny 🐇🍭). If your baby’s sleep schedule took a bit of a detour thanks to late nights, travel, or a few too many jelly beans, don’t worry. At Rocky Mountain Sleeping Baby, we’re here to help you gently guide your little one back into a restful rhythm.
What Happens to Baby Sleep During Holiday Weekends?
Holiday weekends are a blast, but they often come with:
- Skipped or shortened naps
- Bedtimes pushed later than usual
- More stimulation than usual (hello, egg hunts!)
- And yes—sugar. Whether it’s chocolate bunnies or pastel-colored treats, all that excitement can throw off even the best sleeper.
- Well-meaning friends and family asking you to ditch your sleep routine for the sake of memories and fun.
These disruptions are totally normal, but they can definitely affect your child’s sleep. The good news? With a little consistency and a lot of love, your baby’s schedule can bounce right back.
Step 1: Get Back to Your Normal Routine—ASAP
As soon as the festivities wrap up, return to your regular bedtime and nap routine. Babies and toddlers thrive on predictability, so jump back into familiar patterns:
- Keep the same bedtime (even if they resist at first)
- Reinstate your calming bedtime routine (bath, book, lullaby, snuggle)
- Stay consistent with wake-up times to reset their internal clock
Even if the first couple of nights feel a little rocky, consistency is key. Their bodies and brains will catch on quickly.
Step 2: Limit the Leftover Treats
We’re not the fun police—we love a good marshmallow chick as much as anyone—but too much sugar (especially close to bedtime) can interfere with pediatric sleep. Save any treats for earlier in the day and opt for calming snacks like bananas or whole grains in the evening.
Step 3: Make Up for Lost Sleep Gradually
If your little one missed out on solid sleep over the weekend, you can help them catch up with:
- An extra catnap (if they’re under 18 months)
- Slightly earlier bedtime for a few nights
- Quiet, low-stimulation afternoons to help their bodies settle back down
Remember, catching up on sleep is about gentle adjustments, not drastic changes.
Step 4: Reassure & Reconnect
Sometimes sleep disruptions come with some extra clinginess or night wakings. That’s totally normal after an exciting weekend. Offer your baby a little extra comfort at bedtime—rock them, sing, or just sit by their crib for a few minutes longer than usual.
This helps them feel safe, which is essential for baby sleep and emotional regulation.
You’ve Got This (And We’ve Got You!)
Getting back on track after a sugar-filled, schedule-busting holiday weekend can be a bit of a challenge—but with patience and consistency, your baby will be snoozing soundly again in no time. At Rocky Mountain Sleeping Baby, we know the ups and downs of parenting (and sleep training!) aren’t always smooth—but they are absolutely worth it.
Need a little help getting your baby’s sleep back in sync? Our certified pediatric sleep coaches are just a call away, ready to create a plan that works for your family.💤 Here’s to restful nights after egg-cellent weekends! 💛
