All About the Overtired Child

I talk a lot about overtired babies and children. Today it occurred to me that knowing overtired signs is just as important as knowing sleepy signs.

The words I usually use to describe an overtired child are “wired” and “crazy”, which usually presents a short time after your child shows tired signs. This is a clue that cortisol has been released and your child is entering a fight or flight response.

I feel like all parents are going to recognize these, but may not necessarily know they are a clue to your child being overtired. 

What to watch for:

Unexplained anger

Intense frustration

Extra energy/ being hyper late in the evening

Meltdowns over things that aren’t usual for your child 

Knowing overtired signs can help you know when your child needs extra sleep, even just for a few days. When you see these signs, be mindful to be a little extra sensitive to your child’s schedule for those few days. Make sure bedtime is on time or early. Try to clear your schedule for nap times so they are sure to get the sleep they need.

If you track these overtired signs, you will be more likely to notice when your child is well rested again and not showing these signs anymore.

If you need a little extra help with an overtired child, head over to the “Work With Me” page to see how we can work together one on one.