Overstimulation is a common issue that can significantly disrupt sleep in young children. Exposing babies and toddlers to excessive sights, sounds, activity or excitement can leave them feeling overwhelmed and have a negative impact on their ability to wind down and fall asleep.

Have you been to an amusement park and noticed all the screaming kids (hello Disney!), thinking if this should be their “happiest place on earth,” why are the kids crying and the parents yelling? Let’s explore the reasoning behind this frustrating scenario.

As parents we sometimes think that if we “wear them out” our little ones will sleep better. However, often the opposite is true. Off of their typical routine, babies and toddlers can get too wound up and struggle to relax. Remember- sleep begets sleep. 

Here are some key points on how overstimulation affects sleep in early childhood:

• Difficulty Falling Asleep: Overstimulated children often have trouble settling down and transitioning into sleep. Their brains remain active and alert, making it hard for them to relax.
• Fragmented Sleep: Once asleep, overstimulated little ones tend to have more disruptions and wake-ups throughout the night. Their sleep is less consolidated and restorative.(Night terrors are usually the result of being over-tired)
• Early Morning Wakings: Babies and toddlers who are overstimulated often wake up earlier than their body clocks would naturally dictate. This can lead to an overtiredness cycle.
• Daytime Fatigue: The sleep disruptions caused by overstimulation can result in little ones feeling worn out, cranky and struggling to maintain age-appropriate awake windows during the day.

To help mitigate the impact of overstimulation on sleep, parents should aim to create a calming bedtime routine, limit screen time, and provide adequate quiet downtime during the day. Consulting a pediatrician is also recommended for personalized guidance.

Calming an Overstimulated Infant

When babies become overstimulated, they can become fussy, cry inconsolably, and have a very difficult time settling down to sleep. Helping an overstimulated infant calm down requires a gentle, soothing approach. Here are some effective techniques:

• Limit Sensory Input: Reduce external stimuli like bright lights, loud noises, and excessive activity. Dim the lights, turn off the TV, and keep the environment quiet and calm.
• Provide Calming Touch: Gently hold, rock, or sway the baby. You can also try infant massage using slow, gentle strokes.
• Offer Comfort Objects: Give the baby a soft, cuddly toy or blanket to provide familiarity and security.
• Use White Noise: The gentle, consistent sound of a white noise machine or fan can have a soothing effect.
• Attempt Soothing Sounds: Try shushing, humming, or singing softly and calmly to the baby.
• Implement a Calming Routine: Establish a predictable sequence of calming activities like bathing, rocking, and reading before bedtime.
• Consider Swaddling: Swaddling can have a calming, womb-like effect on infants, helping them feel secure.
• Monitor Awake Times: Ensure the baby is not overly tired, which can exacerbate an overstimulated state.
• Try to Stay Calm yourself: Having a crying baby can be stressful, especially in a stimulating environment (family party, amusement park…). Stay calm to help your baby calm down. 
• Here’s a link to the 5 S’s to help calm your baby.

Remaining patient, responsive, and providing a calming environment are key to helping an overstimulated infant regain composure and transition into restful sleep.

Calming an Overstimulated Toddler

Toddlers can become easily overwhelmed by too much sensory input, activity, or excitement, leading to meltdowns and difficulty settling down. Helping an overstimulated toddler calm down requires a patient, compassionate approach. Try these strategies:

• Create a Quiet Space: Remove the toddler from the stimulating environment and bring them to a calm, quiet area free from noise and distractions.
• Engage in Deep Breathing: Model and guide the toddler in taking slow, deep breaths to help them regain control of their body and emotions.
• Encourage Sensory Play: Provide calming sensory experiences like squeezing a stress ball, playing with playdough, or exploring soft, soothing textures.
• Implement Calming Rituals: Develop a consistent sequence of calming activities, such as reading a book, singing a lullaby, or using lavender-scented lotion.
• Limit Choices: When overstimulated, too many options can be overwhelming. Offer simple, structured choices to help the toddler feel in control.
• Use Soothing Language: Speak slowly and softly, validating their feelings and providing reassurance. Avoid raising your voice or using harsh tones.
• Engage in Light Physical Touch: Gently rub their back, hold their hand, or give them a gentle hug to provide a calming physical connection.
• Redirect Attention: Shift the focus to a simple, engaging activity like looking at picture books or playing with a favorite toy.

Remaining patient, empathetic, and creating a calm environment are key to helping an overstimulated toddler regain their composure and transition into a state of relaxation.

Whether you are traveling, visiting with family, or spending a fun day at the park, it is easy to over-do it for your child and they end up exhausted with a limited ability to recover on their own. Use these tips to help your child wind down to avoid the sleep struggles that can accompany an overstimulated little one. With a return to your routine, your child should resume their usual sleep habits, but it may take a day or 2 to get there. Be patient! Reach out to your child’s provider if you are struggling to get back to where you were previously. 

For more signs of an overstimulated child, check this link https://raisingchildren.net.au/newborns/behaviour/common-concerns/overstimulation