Knowing our little one's cues can help us know when they are tired and it's time to go to bed. If we are not familiar with them or do not recognize them in time, our baby may be more tired than usual at bedtime, which is known as overtiredness or over-exhaustion in babies. Here are some signs and tips.

How many times has your baby cried inconsolably and you've said, "He's gone too far" or "He's gone overboard"? Indeed, that hyperactivity, overexcitement, or inconsolable crying is a sign that your baby needs more sleep.

Signs of overtiredness in babies

Overtiredness is a natural response of the human body. If the baby is too physically tired, their stress response system is activated. Stress hormones, such as cortisol or adrenaline, flood their bloodstream, putting the baby in a state of alertness.

This state of alertness makes it very difficult for them to relax and fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night, leading to more nighttime awakenings. Sometimes we see how the baby literally struggles not to fall asleep. Furthermore, this state tends to be a cyclical pattern, meaning that the more tired the baby is, the more difficult it will be for them to fall asleep.

In general, the clearest signs of overtiredness are:

• Cries and screams hysterically
• It is more irritable.
• No consolation
• He's overexcited.
• Arches their back or becomes stiff
• He has trouble falling asleep even though he shows signs of tiredness.

How to help them relax when they are overtired

If we do not recognize the signs of tiredness in time and our baby becomes overtired, do not despair and be very patient. Here are some tips to help calm them down:

• Hold them and wrap them in a blanket or muslin cloth; they will feel more secure and safe. You can also feed them; skin contact with their mother or father will also reassure them.
• Rock or cradle them; gentle movement will help them relax little by little. Performing gentle, repetitive movements such as rocking or cradling the baby can help calm them and make them feel safe and comfortable.
• Give them their comfort blanket or pacifier. Many babies need to feel a soft fabric with their parents' scent. Others prefer a pacifier to relax. They often find comfort in sucking, which can help calm them and make them feel more peaceful.
• Gently massage your baby to help relax their muscles and reduce tension. Be sure to use a mild baby oil or lotion and gently massage your baby's skin in circular motions.
• Use white noise or classical music, as it is continuous and without ups and downs, it will help them relax and fall asleep. Soft, soothing music can help reduce stress and anxiety. Try not to overuse white noise; use it only when necessary.
• If you have been trying the above tips for a while and are unsuccessful, leave the room, give them some time to play and disconnect (about 20-30 minutes), and then try again.

Remember that every baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. If none of these techniques work, you may need to consult a pediatrician or child sleep specialist for further assistance.