Have you ever wondered if your baby has “FOMO” (fear of missing out)? Does it feel like your baby having FOMO is disrupting their sleep or making bedtime harder? I’m here to help. Let’s dive into more about FOMO babies, including how FOMO might impact sleep and how to help FOMO babies sleep. 

What is a FOMO baby? Does my baby have FOMO?#anchor

Parents often tell me they think their baby is fighting sleep because they have FOMO (fear of missing out). These babies they’re describing are typically very alert and busy. “FOMO babies and toddlers” tend to be curious, frequently exploring, and constantly moving. Is this your baby? Does it seem like your baby or toddler won’t sleep because they simply don’t want to miss out on all the “fun” happening during nap time or after bedtime?

These “FOMO babies or toddlers” may especially struggle to fall asleep on the go, in a new environment, or if there are visitors in your house. Protesting or crying during the nap routine or bedtime routine is also a common occurrence for these babies and toddlers who seem to have FOMO. They know that it’s time for sleep, but also know that it means missing out on the happenings in the house.

Keep in mind, some of the reasons babies and toddlers fight sleep can actually be mistaken for FOMO. Little ones experiencing separation anxiety or other developmental progression often fight sleep because they don’t want to miss out on time with you or a chance to practice new skills. It can be easy to miss the cues of a busy and active baby or toddler and therefore easier for them to become overtired. Whether your baby or toddler is fighting sleep because they have FOMO or for another reason, my tips can help.

How do you help a FOMO baby sleep?#anchor

1. Create a wind-down routine. 
   A simple bedtime routine (think: brush teeth, jammies, books, bed) helps cue your little one’s brain that sleep is coming. It sets the stage for rest and helps them transition from a busy environment to time for sleep.

2. Create an environment for sleep success.
   An environment free of distractions makes it easier for little ones to sleep. You’ll want the room to be dark, cool, and with the consistent hum of a sound machine. Try to move any fun toys, mobiles, etc. out of the view of the crib. A space with minimal stimulation helps calm your baby and makes it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. 

3. Practice new skills during awake time.
   Learning a new skill (think: talking, crawling, standing up independently, etc.) is so fun that it is tempting for little one’s to want to practice in their crib. Offer plenty of time during awake time to practice new skills so that when it’s time for sleep, your baby has used that active energy and isn’t as tempted to practice in the crib.

4. Move out of their line of sight.
   Naps on the go can be especially tricky for little ones with FOMO. If they are trying to nap in the car or stroller, do your best to move out of their line of sight. Even just a tiny bit of interaction from you can sometimes be all the fuel they need to stay awake! 

5. Have a plan.
   If FOMO is always making sleep tricky, having a plan you can follow consistently will help. My classes will give you the tools you need to achieve restful and independent sleep.