Struggling with naps

[moodledoodle]

Looking for some advice, please. My 13 week old has never been good at sleeping during the day. She will nap when out and about, but was only taking short naps at home. This was fine until this week because I managed to spot the signs early and get her over by cuddling her into me. However, this week she seems to have cottoned on to it, and goes ballistic when I hold her in the 'sleep' position. I wouldn't mind the lack of sleep except she is really cranky and cries ALL the time, and I have been at the end of my tether this week. She is also starting to not go down at night, which previously she was very good at. Suggestions? Could she be bored?

I really feel for you. ds was like this and would never sleep for longer than 20 to 40 mins. He would sleep in the car but didnt want to be held when he was tired. We used to swaddle him and lie him down in a dark place. sometimes he took ages to settle and the crying was so unbearable. I made a diary of things that seemed to work like being out in the pram etc. I know its hard but this phase does pass. I think in the end I changed his milk to something that filled him up more and nicer on the tummy cause he used to suffer from wind. A bath also helps I used to just bathe him any old time of the day. anything to get through it basically. sometimes I would just singhim a song even if he was crying and findingit hard to settle.

poor you. Will she nap in an upright position? Perhaps you could get a soft sling if so. I wouldn't think she's bored. I think they get enough stimulation taking in this new world without being entertained a great deal. I don't really know what to suggest. I'd take whatever easy option presented itself. Would she nap on your tummy while you watch the telly?

I have tried her in her chair, and have tried singing and slings. She really hates slings cause she can't see around her. Swaddling worked really well until a couple of weeks ago when she worked out how to get out of it (and we had one of those miracle blankets). Should I persevere with trying to get her to nap, or just give up?

Well, I do think she needs to nap but for your sanity I wouldn't try too hard. I remember going through something similar at this age (and periodically since) and spending lots of time in darkened rooms trying to get her to sleep. All it did was make me mega misserable and resentful. Once I'd relaxed and just accepted it, it got easier. Could you have her facing outwards in the sling? Can't remember if this is too young. Personally I'd just do what you can with the least stress because they do pick up on it. I went through a phase of just putting my feet up sitting DD on my lap when she was tired in a reclined position, popping a dummy in and just watch the TV. She started sleeping longer because she had that contact, I got to have a break and eat chocolate. It was a win win situation Do you think that would work?

Also, are you putting her in her cot? Mine would never sleep in her cot at this age but will do much better these days. I'd sometimes make a nest for her in the lounge and just sit next to her of hold her hand