🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 117 (from laksa048)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa117.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/","crawl_time":1775336329,"first_indexed_time":1593873322,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,whattoexpect!www,\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/ s443","src_root_hash":"14305885450259112917","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"How to Get Your Baby to Stop Fighting Sleep","meta_descriptions":["From being overtired to separation anxiety, there are a number of reasons why your baby may fight sleep. Here are the best solutions for when that happens."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"You know your baby is tired and ready for bed, so why is she suddenly protesting? Here are a few reasons behind it and some tips for ending the war on sleep.\nBack to Top\nWhy does my baby fight sleep?\nHow do I get my baby to stop fighting sleep?\nBabies and their new parents look forward to bedtime and enjoy the familiar tuck-in routine. But even after a nice warm bath, one last feeding and that special ditty you croon each night, your baby might fight the sleep that you're sure she's ready for.\n\"My girl cries going down for every single nap,\" says What to Expect Community user Recu717. \"The more tired she is, the worse the fight is.\"\nTake heart and know that while\nprotesting the crib\nput-down is pretty common, there are several potential reasons behind it.\n[1]\nRead on for more so you can get your babe back on the bedtime track.\nCommon causes for babies fighting sleep\ninclude overtiredness, overstimulation, sleep regressions, separation anxiety, teething pain, developmental milestones, travel disruptions, dropping naps, or simply needing less sleep as they grow.\nTo help your little one get to sleep,\nstick to a consistent routine, watch for early drowsy cues, keep the environment calm, try to follow age-appropriate wake windows, and offer plenty of daytime practice for any milestones your child is working on mastering.\nRemember, too, that your baby's sleep schedule will change with time.\n Be flexible with bedtime, naps, and routines — and rest assured that sleep resistance is usually a normal, passing phase.\nWhy does my baby fight sleep?\nA few tears at bedtime are standard operating procedure for most babies. In fact, many babies can't get to sleep without crying first. But if the fuss goes on and on, even after you’ve ruled out hunger, a wet or dirty diaper, and illness, consider these other factors:\nOvertired baby\n.\nIt may sound a little crazy, but not getting enough Zzzs can lead to a baby who’s so wiped out she's wired and has trouble settling down at night.\nOverstimulated baby.\nA bright, busy household, screens, beeping toys, or a crying spell can be too much to handle, resulting in overstimulation and the urge to fight sleep. Try to avoid stimulating activities at least an hour before baby's bedtime.\n[2]\nSleep regression\n.\nThis setback in your baby’s regular nighttime routine can crop up throughout the first year, including at \n4 months\n, 6 months, \nbetween 8 and 10 months\n, and once more at 12 months.\nSeparation anxiety\n.\nAround 8 months (though it can happen a bit earlier or later), this clingy phase may kick in, resulting in tears when you leave your babe alone in the crib.\n[3]\nTeething\n.\nMost infants start to cut teeth around 6 months (though it can happen earlier or later), and teething pain can cause a baby to wail and fight sleep.\n[4]\nHitting a milestone.\nBabbling, rolling, sitting up, crawling, and walking are all\nbig developmental milestones\nthat some infants like to practice at night.\nTraveling.\nA vacation means a different crib or a shift in the usual bedtime schedule, which can prompt a baby to fight sleep. \nBaby's not tired.\nBetween 1 and 2 years, babies sleep 11 to 14 hours, rather than the 12 to 16 hours they logged when they were younger. If your baby isn’t hitting the hay easily, she may not need as many Zzzs now.\n[5]\n \nBaby dropped a nap.\nAround 12 to 15 months, babies start to skip their morning nap, so if yours isn’t keen to be put down, it could signal she's a one-nap tot from now on.\nHow do I get my baby to stop fighting sleep?\nConsistency is key when it comes to getting your baby to stop fighting sleep. Your best bet is to stick to your plan and the tuck-in should become easier over time. Here's how:\nMemorize drowsy signs.\nAn overtired baby is too worked up to sleep, so strive to spot the signs that she’s drowsy, such as yawning, ear pulling, eye rubbing,\nthumb sucking\n, and fussing.\n[6]\nKeep things low-key.\nOverstimulation can be caused by too many people around, bright lights, or a noisy environment. Do what you can to remove your baby from the din.\nPractice separating.\nYou go away, but you always return. Teach this by leaving the room for a few seconds at a time and your tot will get better at being away from you.\nGet to know your baby’s \"\nwake windows\n,\"\nor the amount of time your baby can handle being awake at a stretch, which varies by age. A 1-month-old, for instance, can be awake for about an hour at a time, and a 3-month-old can go for up to two hours. \"[My baby] delays naps and night sleep by up to an hour, which makes him overtired,\" says What to Expect Community user meghanelizabeth912. \"Slightly longer daytime wake windows has helped us.\"\nMake daytime for playtime.\nGive your sweetie lots of practice with her newly minted milestones (sitting up, crawling) so she nixes the urge to try them at night and stops fighting sleep.\nTake the routine on the road.\nBath, bottle, cuddle, bed! Babies with a solid\nbedtime routine\nwill cry less and sleep more, so stay the course even when you’re traveling. \nChange her bedtime.\nA bigger baby needs a little less shut-eye, so be ready to push your little one's bedtime back a bit as she ages.\nPlan a longer afternoon nap.\nIf your babe seems ready to drop her morning nap, consider moving lunch up a bit and putting her down for a longer afternoon snooze.\n[7]\nWondering if your fussy baby will ever settle down in the crib? Keep in mind that fighting sleep is likely due to a predictable phase. Once you’ve identified the issue, you can help her through it and then ease her back to the sleep you’re both craving.\nIs your little one still fighting sleep? Open the \nWhat to Expect app\nfor more tips on implementing a healthy sleep routine, plus a community of parents who have been there. \nFrom the What to Expect editorial team and \nHeidi Murkoff,\n author of \nWhat to Expect When You're Expecting\n. What to Expect follows strict reporting guidelines and uses only credible sources, such as peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions and highly respected health organizations. Learn how we keep our content accurate and up-to-date by reading our \nmedical review and editorial policy\n.\nSources\nAmerican Academy of Pediatrics,\nGetting Your Baby to Sleep\nOpens a new window\n, June 2024. |\nShow in the article\nAmerican Academy of Pediatrics,\nWhy to Avoid TV for Infants & Toddlers\nOpens a new window\n, October 2016. |\nShow in the article\nAmerican Academy of Pediatrics,\nHow to Ease Your Child%u2019s Separation Anxiety\nOpens a new window\n, January 2025. |\nShow in the article\nAmerican Academy of Pediatrics,\nTeething & Tooth Care\nOpens a new window\n, 2025. |\nShow in the article\nMayo Clinic,\nHelping Baby Sleep Through the Night\nOpens a new window\n, February 2025. |\nShow in the article\nAmerican Academy of Pediatrics,\nResponding To Your Baby's Cries\nOpens a new window\n, February 2025. |\nShow in the article\nHarvard Health Publishing,\nNaps: Make the Most of Them and Know When to Stop Them\nOpens a new window\n, December 2021. |\nShow in the article\nWhat to Expect the First Year\n, 3rd edition, Heidi Murkoff.\nWhatToExpect.com,\n11 Reasons Your Baby Won't Sleep and How to Cope\n, July 2025.\nWhatToExpect.com,\nCould Your Baby Be Going Through a 12-Month Sleep Regression?\n, February 2022.\nWhatToExpect.com,\nHow to Get Your Baby to Sleep Anywhere\n, August 2022.\nWhatToExpect.com,\nSigns of an Overtired Baby\n, February 2022.\nWhatToExpect.com,\nWhat Do Your Baby’s Cries Mean?\n, June 2021.\nWhatToExpect.com,\nWhat Is Sleep Regression?\n, July 2025.\nWhatToExpect.com.com,\nWhen Do Babies Start Crawling?\n, August 2023.\nWhatToExpect.com.com, \nUnderstanding Wake Windows by Age and How to Time Baby's Naps for Better Sleep\n, August 2025.\nAmerican Academy of Pediatrics,\nHow to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained\n, June 2025.\nAmerican Academy of Pediatrics,\nEmotional and Social Development: 8 to 12 Months\n, August 2009.\nAmerican Academy of Pediatrics,\nHealthy Digital Media Use Habits for Babies, Toddlers & Preschoolers\n, July 2022.\nAmerican Academy of Pediatrics,\nWhere We Stand: Screen Time\n, December 2023.\nChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia,\nInfant Sleep\n, 2025.\nJohns Hopkins Medicine,\nNewborn Sleep Patterns\n, 2025.\nAugust 17, 2025\nEditors: Kathleen Felton\/Catherine Donaldson-Evans\nLight copy changes and updates to sourcing.\nFact-checked for accuracy.\nWas this article helpful?","attrs_markdown":"[![What to Expect Logo](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/redesign\/logo.v3.svg)](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/)\n\nSign Up\n\n- [Get the App](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/mobile-app\/)\n- Getting Pregnant\n- Pregnancy\n- First Year\n- Toddler\n- Family\n- Baby Names\n- Registry\n- Product Reviews\n- Community Groups\n- [News](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/news)\n\n[![What to Expect Logo](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/redesign\/logo.v3.svg)](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/)\n\nSign Up\n\n- [Get the App](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/mobile-app\/)\n- Getting Pregnant\n- Pregnancy\n- First Year\n- Toddler\n- Family\n- Baby Names\n- Registry\n- Product Reviews\n- Community Groups\n- [News](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/news)\n\nGet the App\n\nGetting Pregnant\n\n- [Fertility](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/getting-pregnant\/fertility\/)\n- [Ovulation](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/getting-pregnant\/ovulation\/)\n- [Infertility](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/getting-pregnant\/fertility\/infertility\/)\n- [See All Getting Pregnant Topics](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/getting-pregnant\/)\n\nRECOMMENDED READING\n\n- ![preview image](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/implantation-bleeding-2023-article.jpg)\n  [What is Implantation Bleeding and When Does It Occur?](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/getting-pregnant\/implantation-bleeding\/)\n- ![preview image](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/ovulation-symptoms-article.jpg)\n  [Ovulation Symptoms: 10 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[Ovulation Calculator](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/ovulation-calculator\/)\n- ![tool item](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/IVF-due-date-icon.svg)\n  [IVF Due Date Calculator](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/ivf-due-date-calculator\/)\n\nPregnancy\n\n- [Pregnancy Week-by-Week](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/week-by-week\/)\n- [Pregnancy Symptoms](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/pregnancy-symptoms\/)\n- [Labor & Delivery](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/labor-and-delivery\/)\n- [Preparing for Baby](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/preparing-for-babys-arrival\/)\n- [Fetal Development](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/fetal-development\/)\n- [Baby’s Zodiac Sign](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/your-health\/baby-zodiac-signs-horoscope)\n- [Baby Showers](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/family\/celebrations\/baby-showers\/)\n- [See All Pregnancy Topics](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/)\n\nRECOMMENDED READING\n\n- ![preview image](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/Early-Signs-of-Pregnancy-Before-a-Missed-Period-article.jpg)\n  [Early Signs of Pregnancy](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/symptoms-and-solutions\/early-signs-of-pregnancy-before-missed-period\/)\n- ![preview image](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/morning-sickness-2018-article.jpg)\n  [Managing Morning Sickness and Nausea During Pregnancy](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/morning-sickness\/)\n- ![preview image](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/Signs-and-Symptoms-of-Labor-article.jpg)\n  [Signs of Labor](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/labor-signs)\n- ![preview image](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/changes-in-fetal-movement-2021-article.jpg)\n  [Changes or Decreases in Fetal 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[Bottle-Feeding](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/bottle-feeding\/)\n- [Introducing Solids](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/baby-feeding\/)\n- [Baby Sleep](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/)\n- [Vaccines](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/child-immunizations\/)\n- [Sleep Schedules](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/baby-sleep-schedule.aspx)\n- [Feeding Schedules](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/feeding-baby\/how-to-get-baby-on-feeding-schedule\/)\n- [See All First Year Topics](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/)\n\nRECOMMENDED READING\n\n- ![preview image](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/growth-spurt-first-year-article.jpg)\n  [When Do Baby Growth Spurts Happen?](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/ask-heidi\/baby-growth-spurts.aspx)\n- ![preview image](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/Gassy-Baby-article.jpg)\n  [How to Help a Gassy 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item](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/Birth-Chart_Tool-Icon.svg)\n  [Birth Chart Calculator](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/birth-chart-calculator\/)\n\nToddler\n\n- [Toddler Month-by-Month](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/toddler\/growth-and-development\/month-by-month\/)\n- [Feeding Your Toddler](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/toddler\/eating-and-nutrition\/)\n- [Toddler Sleep](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/toddler\/toddler-sleep\/)\n- [Potty Training](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/toddler\/potty-training\/)\n- [See All Toddler Topics](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/toddler\/)\n\nRECOMMENDED READING\n\n- ![preview image](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/toddler-waking-early-article.jpg)\n  [Why Is Your Toddler Waking Up Too Early and What Should You Do About It?](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/toddler\/behavior\/early-risings.aspx)\n- ![preview image](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/3-day-potty-training-article.jpg)\n  [How to Potty 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Boys](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-names\/list\/top-baby-names-for-boys\/)\n- [Top Baby Names for Girls](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-names\/list\/top-baby-names-for-girls\/)\n- [Unique Girl Names](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-names\/unique-baby-girl-names\/)\n- [Unique Boy Names](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-names\/unique-baby-boy-names\/)\n- [See All Baby Names Topics](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-names\/)\n\nRECOMMENDED READING\n\n- ![preview image](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/A-Boy-Name-article.jpg)\n  [Top Baby Boy Names That Start With A](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-names\/list\/baby-boy-names-that-start-with-a\/)\n- ![preview image](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/J-girl-name-article.jpg)\n  [Top Baby Girl Names That Start With J](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-names\/list\/baby-girl-names-that-start-with-j\/)\n- ![preview 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Groups](https:\/\/community.whattoexpect.com\/forums\/)\n\nNews\n\n[First Year](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/) \\> [Sleep](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/)\n\n# How to Get Your Baby to Stop Fighting Sleep\n[![author image](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/Jennifer-Kelly-Geddes-bio.jpg)](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/authors\/jenniferkelly-geddes-1490)\n\nby [Jennifer Kelly Geddes](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/authors\/jenniferkelly-geddes-1490)\n\n![reviewed mark](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/\/redesign\/review_shield_icon.svg) Medically Reviewed by [Micah Resnick, M.D., F.A.A.P.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/reviewers\/micah-resnick-14)\n\n![Medically Reviewed](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/\/redesign\/review_shield_icon.svg) **Medical Review Policy**\n\nAll What to Expect content that addresses health or safety is medically reviewed by a team of vetted health professionals. Our Medical Review Board includes OB\/GYNs, pediatricians, infectious disease specialists, doulas, lactation counselors, endocrinologists, fertility specialists and more.\n\nWe believe you should always know the source of the information you're reading. Learn more about [our editorial and medical review policies](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/medical-review\/).\n\n\\| [August 17, 2025](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/)\n\n**Latest update:**\n\nLight copy changes, updates to sourcing, fact-checked for accuracy.\n\n[See more](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#articleInfo)\n\nDissolve\n\n![baby fighting sleep, sleepy baby held in mom's arms](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/how-to-get-your-baby-to-stop-fighting-sleep-722x406.jpg)\n\nYou know your baby is tired and ready for bed, so why is she suddenly protesting? Here are a few reasons behind it and some tips for ending the war on sleep.\n\nBack to Top ![Back to Top](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/redesign\/back-to-top-button.svg)\n\nIn This Article\n\n- [Why does my baby fight sleep?](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#why)\n- [How do I get my baby to stop fighting sleep?](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#how)\n\nBabies and their new parents look forward to bedtime and enjoy the familiar tuck-in routine. But even after a nice warm bath, one last feeding and that special ditty you croon each night, your baby might fight the sleep that you're sure she's ready for.\n\n\"My girl cries going down for every single nap,\" says What to Expect Community user Recu717. \"The more tired she is, the worse the fight is.\"\n\nTake heart and know that while [protesting the crib](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-wont-sleep-in-crib\/) put-down is pretty common, there are several potential reasons behind it.  Trusted Source[American Academy of Pediatrics](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#1)Getting Your Baby to Sleep[See All Sources](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#sourceAccordion) [\\[1\\]]() Read on for more so you can get your babe back on the bedtime track.\n\n![summary icon](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/redesign\/key_takeaways.svg)\n\nKey Takeaways\n\n**Common causes for babies fighting sleep** include overtiredness, overstimulation, sleep regressions, separation anxiety, teething pain, developmental milestones, travel disruptions, dropping naps, or simply needing less sleep as they grow.\n\n**To help your little one get to sleep,** stick to a consistent routine, watch for early drowsy cues, keep the environment calm, try to follow age-appropriate wake windows, and offer plenty of daytime practice for any milestones your child is working on mastering.\n\n**Remember, too, that your baby's sleep schedule will change with time.** Be flexible with bedtime, naps, and routines — and rest assured that sleep resistance is usually a normal, passing phase.\n## Why does my baby fight sleep?\nA few tears at bedtime are standard operating procedure for most babies. In fact, many babies can't get to sleep without crying first. But if the fuss goes on and on, even after you’ve ruled out hunger, a wet or dirty diaper, and illness, consider these other factors:\n\n- **[Overtired baby](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/overtired-baby\/).** It may sound a little crazy, but not getting enough Zzzs can lead to a baby who’s so wiped out she's wired and has trouble settling down at night.\n- **Overstimulated baby.** A bright, busy household, screens, beeping toys, or a crying spell can be too much to handle, resulting in overstimulation and the urge to fight sleep. Try to avoid stimulating activities at least an hour before baby's bedtime.  Trusted Source[American Academy of Pediatrics](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#2)Why to Avoid TV for Infants & Toddlers[See All Sources](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#sourceAccordion) [\\[2\\]]()\n- **[Sleep regression](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/sleep-regression\/).** This setback in your baby’s regular nighttime routine can crop up throughout the first year, including at [4 months](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/4-month-sleep-regression\/), 6 months, [between 8 and 10 months](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/8-month-sleep-regression\/), and once more at 12 months.\n- **[Separation anxiety](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/week-10\/separation-anxiety.aspx).** Around 8 months (though it can happen a bit earlier or later), this clingy phase may kick in, resulting in tears when you leave your babe alone in the crib.  Trusted Source[American Academy of Pediatrics](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#3)How to Ease Your Child%u2019s Separation Anxiety[See All Sources](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#sourceAccordion) [\\[3\\]]()\n- **[Teething](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/teething\/).** Most infants start to cut teeth around 6 months (though it can happen earlier or later), and teething pain can cause a baby to wail and fight sleep.  Trusted Source[American Academy of Pediatrics](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#4)Teething & Tooth Care[See All Sources](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#sourceAccordion) [\\[4\\]]()\n- **Hitting a milestone.** Babbling, rolling, sitting up, crawling, and walking are all [big developmental milestones](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/milestones\/) that some infants like to practice at night.\n- **Traveling.** A vacation means a different crib or a shift in the usual bedtime schedule, which can prompt a baby to fight sleep.\n- **Baby's not tired.** Between 1 and 2 years, babies sleep 11 to 14 hours, rather than the 12 to 16 hours they logged when they were younger. If your baby isn’t hitting the hay easily, she may not need as many Zzzs now.  Trusted Source[Mayo Clinic](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#5)Helping Baby Sleep Through the Night[See All Sources](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#sourceAccordion) [\\[5\\]]()\n- **Baby dropped a nap.** Around 12 to 15 months, babies start to skip their morning nap, so if yours isn’t keen to be put down, it could signal she's a one-nap tot from now on.\n## How do I get my baby to stop fighting sleep?\nConsistency is key when it comes to getting your baby to stop fighting sleep. Your best bet is to stick to your plan and the tuck-in should become easier over time. Here's how:\n\n[![](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/baby-tracker-sep-2024.png)Track your baby's sleep with the Baby Tracker tool in our free app![](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/redesign\/chevron-right.svg) Opens a new window](https:\/\/wte.onelink.me\/85iI\/k4d5p53l)\n\n- **Memorize drowsy signs.** An overtired baby is too worked up to sleep, so strive to spot the signs that she’s drowsy, such as yawning, ear pulling, eye rubbing, [thumb sucking](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/ask-heidi\/thumb-sucking-baby.aspx), and fussing.  Trusted Source[American Academy of Pediatrics](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#6)Responding To Your Baby's Cries[See All Sources](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#sourceAccordion) [\\[6\\]]()\n- **Keep things low-key.** Overstimulation can be caused by too many people around, bright lights, or a noisy environment. Do what you can to remove your baby from the din.\n- **Practice separating.** You go away, but you always return. Teach this by leaving the room for a few seconds at a time and your tot will get better at being away from you.\n- **Get to know your baby’s \"[wake windows](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/wake-windows),\"** or the amount of time your baby can handle being awake at a stretch, which varies by age. A 1-month-old, for instance, can be awake for about an hour at a time, and a 3-month-old can go for up to two hours. \"\\[My baby\\] delays naps and night sleep by up to an hour, which makes him overtired,\" says What to Expect Community user meghanelizabeth912. \"Slightly longer daytime wake windows has helped us.\"\n- **Make daytime for playtime.** Give your sweetie lots of practice with her newly minted milestones (sitting up, crawling) so she nixes the urge to try them at night and stops fighting sleep.\n- **Take the routine on the road.** Bath, bottle, cuddle, bed! Babies with a solid [bedtime routine](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-bedtime-routine\/) will cry less and sleep more, so stay the course even when you’re traveling.\n- **Change her bedtime.** A bigger baby needs a little less shut-eye, so be ready to push your little one's bedtime back a bit as she ages.\n- **Plan a longer afternoon nap.** If your babe seems ready to drop her morning nap, consider moving lunch up a bit and putting her down for a longer afternoon snooze.  Trusted Source[Harvard Health Publishing](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#7)Naps: Make the Most of Them and Know When to Stop Them[See All Sources](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#sourceAccordion) [\\[7\\]]()\n\nWondering if your fussy baby will ever settle down in the crib? Keep in mind that fighting sleep is likely due to a predictable phase. Once you’ve identified the issue, you can help her through it and then ease her back to the sleep you’re both craving.\n\nIs your little one still fighting sleep? Open the [What to Expect app](https:\/\/wte.onelink.me\/85iI\/7s0l3a5z) for more tips on implementing a healthy sleep routine, plus a community of parents who have been there.\n\nFrom the What to Expect editorial team and [Heidi Murkoff,](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/about-heidi-murkoff\/) author of *What to Expect When You're Expecting*. What to Expect follows strict reporting guidelines and uses only credible sources, such as peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions and highly respected health organizations. Learn how we keep our content accurate and up-to-date by reading our [medical review and editorial policy](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/medical-review\/).\n\n### Sources\nReferences\n\n1. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Getting Your Baby to Sleep Opens a new window](https:\/\/www.healthychildren.org\/English\/ages-stages\/baby\/sleep\/Pages\/Getting-Your-Baby-to-Sleep.aspx), June 2024. \\| [Show in the article](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#1-inline)\n2. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Why to Avoid TV for Infants & Toddlers Opens a new window](https:\/\/www.healthychildren.org\/English\/family-life\/Media\/Pages\/Why-to-Avoid-TV-Before-Age-2.aspx), October 2016. \\| [Show in the article](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#2-inline)\n3. American Academy of Pediatrics, [How to Ease Your Child%u2019s Separation Anxiety Opens a new window](https:\/\/www.healthychildren.org\/English\/ages-stages\/toddler\/Pages\/Soothing-Your-Childs-Separation-Anxiety.aspx), January 2025. \\| [Show in the article](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#3-inline)\n4. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Teething & Tooth Care Opens a new window](https:\/\/www.healthychildren.org\/English\/ages-stages\/baby\/teething-tooth-care\/Pages\/default.aspx), 2025. \\| [Show in the article](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#4-inline)\n5. Mayo Clinic, [Helping Baby Sleep Through the Night Opens a new window](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/healthy-lifestyle\/infant-and-toddler-health\/in-depth\/baby-sleep\/art-20045014), February 2025. \\| [Show in the article](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#5-inline)\n6. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Responding To Your Baby's Cries Opens a new window](https:\/\/www.healthychildren.org\/English\/ages-stages\/baby\/crying-colic\/Pages\/Responding-to-Your-Babys-Cries.aspx), February 2025. \\| [Show in the article](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#6-inline)\n7. Harvard Health Publishing, [Naps: Make the Most of Them and Know When to Stop Them Opens a new window](https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/blog\/naps-make-the-most-of-them-and-know-when-to-stop-them-2018091114800), December 2021. \\| [Show in the article](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#7-inline)\n8. *What to Expect the First Year*, 3rd edition, Heidi Murkoff.\n9. WhatToExpect.com, [11 Reasons Your Baby Won't Sleep and How to Cope](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/baby-sleep-problems.aspx), July 2025.\n10. WhatToExpect.com, [Could Your Baby Be Going Through a 12-Month Sleep Regression?](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/12-month-sleep-regression\/), February 2022.\n11. WhatToExpect.com, [How to Get Your Baby to Sleep Anywhere](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/sleep-strategies\/get-your-baby-to-sleep-anywhere.aspx), August 2022.\n12. WhatToExpect.com, [Signs of an Overtired Baby](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/overtired-baby\/#Signs), February 2022.\n13. WhatToExpect.com, [What Do Your Baby’s Cries Mean?](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/week-10\/decoding-cries.aspx), June 2021.\n14. WhatToExpect.com, [What Is Sleep Regression?](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/sleep-regression\/), July 2025.\n15. WhatToExpect.com.com, [When Do Babies Start Crawling?](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/crawling\/), August 2023.\n16. WhatToExpect.com.com, [Understanding Wake Windows by Age and How to Time Baby's Naps for Better Sleep](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/wake-windows), August 2025.\n17. American Academy of Pediatrics, [How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained](https:\/\/www.healthychildren.org\/English\/ages-stages\/baby\/sleep\/Pages\/A-Parents-Guide-to-Safe-Sleep.aspx), June 2025.\n18. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Emotional and Social Development: 8 to 12 Months](https:\/\/www.healthychildren.org\/English\/ages-stages\/baby\/Pages\/Emotional-and-Social-Development-8-12-Months.aspx), August 2009.\n19. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Healthy Digital Media Use Habits for Babies, Toddlers & Preschoolers](https:\/\/www.healthychildren.org\/English\/family-life\/Media\/Pages\/Healthy-Digital-Media-Use-Habits-for-Babies-Toddlers-Preschoolers.aspx), July 2022.\n20. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Where We Stand: Screen Time](https:\/\/www.healthychildren.org\/English\/family-life\/Media\/Pages\/Where-We-Stand-TV-Viewing-Time.aspx), December 2023.\n21. Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, [Infant Sleep](https:\/\/www.chop.edu\/primary-care\/infant-sleep), 2025.\n22. Johns Hopkins Medicine, [Newborn Sleep Patterns](https:\/\/www.hopkinsmedicine.org\/health\/wellness-and-prevention\/newborn-sleep-patterns), 2025.\n\nUpdates history\n\n**August 17, 2025**\n\nEditors: Kathleen Felton\/Catherine Donaldson-Evans\n\n- Light copy changes and updates to sourcing.\n- Fact-checked for accuracy.\n\nWas this article helpful?\n\n[![this article was helpful](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/\/icon-article-satisfied.png) Yes](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/)   [![this article wasn't helpful](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/\/icon-article-disappointed.png) No](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/)\n\nThanks for the feedback.  \nWant to share it with other parents too? [Leave a review Opens a new window](https:\/\/www.smartcustomer.com\/biz-review?key=695c520dc22b8)\n\nThanks for the feedback\\!\n\nRelated Topics\n\n[Sleep](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/)\n\n[First Year](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/)\n\n[First Year Groups](https:\/\/community.whattoexpect.com\/forums\/first-year)\n\nGo to Your Baby's Age\n\n[Weeks0-1](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/month-by-month\/week-1.aspx)\n\n[Week2](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/month-by-month\/week-2.aspx)\n\n[Week3](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/month-by-month\/week-3.aspx)\n\n[Week4](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/month-by-month\/week-4.aspx)\n\n[Week5](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/month-by-month\/week-5.aspx)\n\n[Week6](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/month-by-month\/week-6.aspx)\n\n[Week7](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/month-by-month\/week-7.aspx)\n\n[Month2](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/month-by-month\/month-2.aspx)\n\n[Month3](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/month-by-month\/month-3.aspx)\n\n[Month4](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/month-by-month\/month-4.aspx)\n\n[Month5](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/month-by-month\/month-5.aspx)\n\n[Month6](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/month-by-month\/month-6.aspx)\n\n[Month7](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/month-by-month\/month-7.aspx)\n\n[Month8](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/month-by-month\/month-8.aspx)\n\n[Month9](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/month-by-month\/month-9.aspx)\n\n[Month10](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/month-by-month\/month-10.aspx)\n\n[Month11](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/month-by-month\/month-11.aspx)\n\n[Month12](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/toddler\/12-month-old\/)\n\nYour Next Read\n\n[![11 Reasons Your Baby Won't Sleep and How to Cope](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/6-Ways-to-Establish-a-Blissful-Baby-Bedtime-Routine-article.jpg)**11 Reasons Your Baby Won't Sleep and How to Cope** Medically Reviewed by Kyle Monk, M.D.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/baby-sleep-problems.aspx)\n\n[![Is Your Baby Refusing to Sleep in the Crib? 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Pregnancy](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/week-by-week\/week-37.aspx)\n- [Week 38 of Pregnancy](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/week-by-week\/week-38.aspx)\n- [Week 39 of Pregnancy](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/week-by-week\/week-39.aspx)\n- [Week 40 of Pregnancy](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/week-by-week\/week-40.aspx)\n- [Week 41 of Pregnancy](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/week-by-week\/week-41.aspx)\n- [Week 42 of Pregnancy](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/week-by-week\/week-42.aspx)\n\n***\nThe educational health content on What To Expect is [reviewed by our medical review board and team of experts](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/medical-review\/) to be up-to-date and in line with the latest evidence-based medical information and accepted health guidelines, including the medically reviewed What to Expect books by Heidi Murkoff. This educational content is not medical or diagnostic advice. Use of this site is subject to our [terms of use](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/terms-of-use\/) and [privacy policy](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/privacy-policy). © 2005-2026 Everyday Health, Inc., a Ziff Davis company.\n\nA property of  [![everydayhealth logo](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/\/redesign\/every-day-health-group-logo.svg) Opens a new window](https:\/\/www.everydayhealthgroup.com\/)\n\nClose\n\nTopics\n\n[Fertility](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/getting-pregnant\/fertility\/)\n\n[Ovulation](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/getting-pregnant\/ovulation\/)\n\n[Infertility](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/getting-pregnant\/fertility\/infertility\/)\n\n[See All Getting Pregnant Topics](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/getting-pregnant\/)\n\nRecommended Reading\n\n[![What is Implantation Bleeding and When Does It Occur?](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/implantation-bleeding-2023-article.jpg)What is Implantation Bleeding and When Does It Occur? Implantation bleeding can mimic period bleeding, but it could also mean that you're pregnant. Here’s how to tell whether spotting or light bleeding is a sign of pregnancy, your period or something else.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/getting-pregnant\/implantation-bleeding\/)\n\n[![Ovulation Symptoms: 10 Signs of Ovulation](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/ovulation-symptoms-article.jpg)Ovulation Symptoms: 10 Signs of Ovulation Signs of ovulation can include increased basal body temperature, mild cramps and more. Here's what to expect — and how to use this information to increase your chances of getting pregnant.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/getting-pregnant\/fertility\/five-ways-to-tell-you-are-ovulating.aspx)\n\n[![Does a Faint Line on a Pregnancy Test Mean You're Pregnant?](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/What-Does-a-Faint-Positive-on-a-Pregnancy-Test-Mean-article.jpg)Does a Faint Line on a Pregnancy Test Mean You're Pregnant? Taking a home pregnancy test is always a nail-biter. How accurate the results are depend a lot on when you take it and what the lines in the window reveal.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/getting-pregnant\/prepping-for-pregnancy\/faint-line-pregnancy-test\/)\n\n[![When Does Implantation Occur? ](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/implantation-article.jpg)When Does Implantation Occur? Learn more about the possible signs and symptoms of implantation during pregnancy, plus when and why it happens.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/getting-pregnant\/ovulation\/implantation\/)\n\n[![How to Have a Boy or a Girl](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/How-to-Have-a-Boy-or-Girl-2021-article.jpg)How to Have a Boy or a Girl On team blue or pink? Find out if these ways to choose baby's sex really work and whether it's a good idea to try them.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/getting-pregnant\/ask-heidi\/gender-selection.aspx)\n\nTools\n\n![Ovulation Calculator](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/redesign\/homepage-refresh-Ovulation-Calculator-Icon.svg)\n\n[Ovulation Calculator](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/ovulation-calculator\/)\n\n![IVF Due Date Calculator](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/IVF-due-date-icon.svg)\n\n[IVF Due Date Calculator](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/ivf-due-date-calculator\/)\n\nTopics\n\n[Pregnancy Week-by-Week](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/week-by-week\/)\n\n[Pregnancy Symptoms](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/pregnancy-symptoms\/)\n\n[Labor & Delivery](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/labor-and-delivery\/)\n\n[Preparing for Baby](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/preparing-for-babys-arrival\/)\n\n[Fetal Development](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/fetal-development\/)\n\n[Baby’s Zodiac Sign](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/your-health\/baby-zodiac-signs-horoscope)\n\n[Baby Showers](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/family\/celebrations\/baby-showers\/)\n\n[See All Pregnancy Topics](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/)\n\nRecommended Reading\n\n[![Early Signs of Pregnancy](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/Early-Signs-of-Pregnancy-Before-a-Missed-Period-article.jpg)Early Signs of Pregnancy If you’re trying to get pregnant, here’s a timeline of the early signs of pregnancy to look for, including tender breasts, fatigue, nausea and bloating.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/symptoms-and-solutions\/early-signs-of-pregnancy-before-missed-period\/)\n\n[![Managing Morning Sickness and Nausea During Pregnancy](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/morning-sickness-2018-article.jpg)Managing Morning Sickness and Nausea During Pregnancy Here are the symptoms and causes of morning sickness, plus what you can do to relieve it.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/morning-sickness\/)\n\n[![Signs of Labor](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/Signs-and-Symptoms-of-Labor-article.jpg)Signs of Labor Not sure how to know if you're in labor? Look for these clues that it's almost show time\\!](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/labor-signs)\n\n[![Changes or Decreases in Fetal Movement](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/changes-in-fetal-movement-2021-article.jpg)Changes or Decreases in Fetal Movement Have your baby's movements changed? Find out what's normal and when to call the doctor.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/fetal-development\/changes-in-fetal-movement\/)\n\n[![Signs You Are Having a Boy or Girl](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/predicting-babys-gender-article.jpg)Signs You Are Having a Boy or Girl Here are some clues to whether you're having a boy or a girl that have research behind them.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/predicting-sex-of-baby)\n\n[![Braxton Hicks Contractions and False Labor](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/contractions-braxton-hicks-article.jpg)Braxton Hicks Contractions and False Labor How to tell the difference between these false labor signs and the real deal.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/symptoms-and-solutions\/braxton-hicks-contractions.aspx)\n\nTools\n\n![Pregnancy Due Date Calculator ](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/redesign\/homepage-refresh-Due-Date-Calculator-Icon.svg)\n\n[Pregnancy Due Date Calculator](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/due-date-calculator\/)\n\n![Conception Date Calculator](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/redesign\/homepage-refresh-Due-Date-Calculator-Icon.svg)\n\n[Conception Date Calculator](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/conception-date-calculator\/)\n\n![Pregnancy Weight Gain Calculator](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/redesign\/homepage-refresh-Pregnancy-weight-gain-calculator-Icon.svg)\n\n[Pregnancy Weight Gain Calculator](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy-weight-gain-calculator)\n\n![Chinese Gender Predictor](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/redesign\/homepage-refresh-Gender_Predictor-Icon.svg)\n\n[Chinese Gender Predictor](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/preparing-for-baby\/chinese-gender-predictor-chart\/)\n\nTopics\n\n[Baby Month-by-Month](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/month-by-month\/)\n\n[Postpartum Recovery](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/just-for-mom-postpartum\/)\n\n[Newborns](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/newborn\/)\n\n[Milestones](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/milestones\/)\n\n[Breastfeeding](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/breastfeeding\/)\n\n[Bottle-Feeding](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/bottle-feeding\/)\n\n[Introducing Solids](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/baby-feeding\/)\n\n[Baby Sleep](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/)\n\n[Vaccines](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/child-immunizations\/)\n\n[Sleep Schedules](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/baby-sleep-schedule.aspx)\n\n[Feeding Schedules](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/feeding-baby\/how-to-get-baby-on-feeding-schedule\/)\n\n[See All First Year Topics](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/)\n\nRecommended Reading\n\n[![When Do Baby Growth Spurts Happen?](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/growth-spurt-first-year-article.jpg)When Do Baby Growth Spurts Happen? You're not imagining it! Find out what happens during baby’s growth spurts.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/ask-heidi\/baby-growth-spurts.aspx)\n\n[![How to Help a Gassy Baby](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/Gassy-Baby-article.jpg)How to Help a Gassy Baby Here's why your baby may be gassy and infant-safe treatments for baby gas.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/care\/gassy-baby\/)\n\n[![11 Reasons Your Baby Won't Sleep](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/6-Ways-to-Establish-a-Blissful-Baby-Bedtime-Routine-article.jpg)11 Reasons Your Baby Won't Sleep Solutions to issues that may be keeping your baby from sleeping through the night.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/baby-sleep-problems.aspx)\n\n[![Gripe Water for Babies](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/Gripe-Water-for-Newborns-and-Babies-article.jpg)Gripe Water for Babies Learn about this herbal treatment for gassy, fussy infants and see if it's safe.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/gripe-water)\n\n[![What is Sleep Regression?](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/Sleep-Regression-101-article.jpg)What is Sleep Regression? Here's when they happen, how long they last and what you can do to help baby sleep better.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/sleep-regression\/)\n\nTools\n\n![Baby Tracker](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/feed-tracker-in-app-2021-article.jpg)\n\n[Baby Tracker](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/baby-feeding\/what-to-expect-baby-feeding-tracker)\n\n![Birth Chart Calculator](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/Birth-Chart_Tool-Icon.svg)\n\n[Birth Chart Calculator](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/birth-chart-calculator\/)\n\nTopics\n\n[Toddler Month-by-Month](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/toddler\/growth-and-development\/month-by-month\/)\n\n[Feeding Your Toddler](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/toddler\/eating-and-nutrition\/)\n\n[Toddler Sleep](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/toddler\/toddler-sleep\/)\n\n[Potty Training](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/toddler\/potty-training\/)\n\n[See All Toddler Topics](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/toddler\/)\n\nRecommended Reading\n\n[![Why Is Your Toddler Waking Up Too Early and What Should You Do About It?](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/toddler-waking-early-article.jpg)Why Is Your Toddler Waking Up Too Early and What Should You Do About It? Use these tips to adjust your early riser's sleep schedule.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/toddler\/behavior\/early-risings.aspx)\n\n[![How to Potty Train Your Toddler in Three Days](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/3-day-potty-training-article.jpg)How to Potty Train Your Toddler in Three Days Heard about the 3-day potty training method? Here's how to make it work.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/toddler\/potty-training\/3-day-potty-training)\n\n[![How to Handle Toddler Night Terrors](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/toddler-night-terrors-article.jpg)How to Handle Toddler Night Terrors Here’s what these sleep episodes are and some easy ways to handle them in your child.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/toddler\/sleep\/night-terrors)\n\n[![Why Toddlers Refuse to Eat and What to Do](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/toddler-food-strikes-article.jpg)Why Toddlers Refuse to Eat and What to Do She used to gobble up everything you put on her plate — but now your toddler who won’t eat.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/toddler\/behavior\/food-strikes.aspx)\n\n[![What to Do if Your Toddler Refuses to Poop](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/refusing-to-poop-article.jpg)What to Do if Your Toddler Refuses to Poop You wait, but it's a no-go. What to do if your toddler has trouble pooping on the potty.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/toddler\/behavior\/potty-training-problem-refusing-to-poop.aspx)\n\nTopics\n\n[Second Time Parents](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/family\/second-time-parents\/)\n\n[Relationships](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/parent-time\/relationship-after-becoming-parents\/)\n\n[Recipes](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/family\/recipes\/)\n\n[See All Family Topics](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/family\/)\n\nRecommended Reading\n\n[![What is the Best Age Gap Between Kids?](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/how-far-apart-should-you-space-your-kids-article.jpg)What is the Best Age Gap Between Kids? While there’s no \"ideal\" age gap between children, there are things to think about.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/family\/child-spacing)\n\n[![10 Best Second Pregnancy Announcements to Celebrate Baby Number Two (or Three!)](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/b-is-for-big-brother-cheerilycoshop-article.jpg)10 Best Second Pregnancy Announcements to Celebrate Baby Number Two (or Three!) Big feelings and big siblings\\!](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/family\/second-time-parents\/second-baby-pregnancy-announcements\/)\n\n[![When Is the Best Time to Have Your Baby Shower?](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/When-to-have-a-baby-shower-article.jpg)When Is the Best Time to Have Your Baby Shower? There's no right or wrong time to celebrate your new arrival.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/family\/celebrations\/when-to-have-a-baby-shower\/)\n\nTopics\n\n[Top Baby Names for Boys](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-names\/list\/top-baby-names-for-boys\/)\n\n[Top Baby Names for Girls](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-names\/list\/top-baby-names-for-girls\/)\n\n[Unique Girl Names](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-names\/unique-baby-girl-names\/)\n\n[Unique Boy Names](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-names\/unique-baby-boy-names\/)\n\n[See All Baby Names Topics](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-names\/)\n\nRecommended Reading\n\n[![Top Baby Boy Names That Start With A](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/A-Boy-Name-article.jpg)Top Baby Boy Names That Start With A See the most popular baby boy names that start with the letter A.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-names\/list\/baby-boy-names-that-start-with-a\/)\n\n[![Top Baby Girl Names That Start With J](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/J-girl-name-article.jpg)Top Baby Girl Names That Start With J See the most popular baby girl names that start with the letter J.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-names\/list\/baby-girl-names-that-start-with-j\/)\n\n[![Top Baby Girl Names That Start With M](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/M-girl-Name-article.jpg)Top Baby Girl Names That Start With M See the most popular baby girl names that start with the letter M.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-names\/list\/baby-girl-names-that-start-with-m\/)\n\n[![Top Baby Girl Names That Start With S ](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/S-Girl-Name-article.jpg)Top Baby Girl Names That Start With S See the most popular baby girl names that start with the letter S.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-names\/list\/baby-girl-names-that-start-with-s\/)\n\n[![Top Baby Boy Names That Start With K](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/k-boy-name-article.jpg)Top Baby Boy Names That Start With K See the most popular baby boy names that start with the letter K.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-names\/list\/baby-boy-names-that-start-with-k\/)\n\nTopics\n\n[Registry Checklist](https:\/\/registry.whattoexpect.com\/baby-registry\/dashboard?checklist-panel&rm_source=navbar)\n\n[My Registries](https:\/\/registry.whattoexpect.com\/baby-registry\/dashboard?registries-panel&rm_source=navbar)\n\n[Registry 101](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/baby-registry\/)\n\n[See All Registry](https:\/\/registry.whattoexpect.com\/baby-registry\/home?rm_source=navbar)\n\nTopics\n\n[Car Seats](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-products\/car-seats\/)\n\n[Maternity Clothes](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-products\/maternity\/)\n\n[Nursing & Feeding](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-products\/nursing-feeding\/)\n\n[Diapering](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-products\/diapering-potty\/diapering-essentials\/)\n\n[Baby Monitors](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-products\/baby-monitors\/)\n\n[See All Baby Products](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-products\/)\n\nRecommended Reading\n\n[![Best Baby Registries](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/best-baby-registries-oct-2024-article.jpg)Best Baby Registries A registry isn’t just a wishlist for loved ones (though it does help prevent those well-meaning but not-quite-your-style gifts). It’s also a personal baby gear checklist.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-products\/registry\/best-baby-registries)\n\n[![Best Free Baby Samples](\/\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/best-baby-samples-mar-2023-article.jpg)Best Free Baby Samples The best free baby sample boxes and subscriptions are those that include a wide variety of brands and products to test, especially baby essentials like diapers, wipes, pacifiers, bottles, baby lotion and more, and aren't too difficult to set up.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-products\/best-free-baby-samples\/)\n\n[![Best Baby Deals](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/best-baby-sales-happening-dec-2022-article.jpg)Best Baby Deals We scoured the web for the best markdowns on brands that What to Expect parents love.](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-products\/best-baby-deals\/)\n\nTools\n\n![First Trimester Must-Haves](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/first-trimester-must-haves-march-2022-article.jpg)\n\n[First Trimester Must-Haves](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-products\/pregnancy\/first-trimester-pregnancy-must-haves\/)\n\n![Second Trimester Must-Haves](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/your-second-trimester-survival-kit-aug-2022-alt-article.jpg)\n\n[Second Trimester Must-Haves](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-products\/pregnancy\/second-trimester-pregnancy-must-haves\/)\n\n![Third Trimester Must-Haves](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/third-trimester-must-haves-aug-2022-article.jpg)\n\n[Third Trimester Must-Haves](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/baby-products\/pregnancy\/third-trimester-pregnancy-must-haves\/)\n\nTopics\n\n[Featured & Popular](https:\/\/community.whattoexpect.com\/forums\/featured-and-popular)\n\n[Birth Month Groups](https:\/\/community.whattoexpect.com\/forums\/birth-month)\n\n[Getting Pregnant](https:\/\/community.whattoexpect.com\/forums\/getting-pregnant)\n\n[Pregnancy](https:\/\/community.whattoexpect.com\/forums\/pregnancy)\n\n[First Year](https:\/\/community.whattoexpect.com\/forums\/first-year)\n\n[Family](https:\/\/community.whattoexpect.com\/forums\/families)\n\n[Health](https:\/\/community.whattoexpect.com\/forums\/health)\n\n[Stages](https:\/\/community.whattoexpect.com\/forums\/stages)\n\n[International](https:\/\/community.whattoexpect.com\/forums\/international)\n\n[United States](https:\/\/community.whattoexpect.com\/forums\/united-states)\n\n[All Groups A-Z](https:\/\/community.whattoexpect.com\/forums\/all)\n\n[See All Community Groups](https:\/\/community.whattoexpect.com\/forums\/)\n\n## Ask What to Expect\nAsk our AI for answers you can trust – powered by What to Expect’s expert-backed content. Currently in Beta.\n\n[![search-icon](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/AI-Search.svg)](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/)\n\nThis AI tool provides general information only, not medical advice. Responses may be inaccurate and shouldn’t replace your healthcare provider. By using this search, you agree to the [Ask What to Expect Disclaimer](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/ai-search-disclaimer), [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/privacy-policy), and [Terms of Use](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/terms-of-use\/).\n\nHow this tool works\n\nAsk What to Expect is intended to help you perform searches on the What to Expect website. It is not meant to perform any other type of search.\n\n**Don’t share personal, sensitive, or health information**\n\nBe sure not to share personal, sensitive, or health information, since the AI Search Assistant collects and stores input and output text, which may be reviewed to improve its accuracy and the services.\n\n**Check your search results**\n\nAsk What to Expect provides AI-generated responses. While we always strive for accuracy, we can’t guarantee search results. Ask What to Expect results are not medical or health advice.\n\n**We’re always working to make it better**\n\nWe are always working to improve Ask What to Expect and its services. See our [Ask What to Expect Disclaimer](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/ai-search-disclaimer), [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/privacy-policy) and [Terms of Use](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/terms-of-use\/) for more on the ways we collect information to improve our services. We welcome feedback [here Opens a new window](https:\/\/www.surveymonkey.com\/r\/wtefooter).\n\nTop Searches\n\nPopular Tools\n\n- [Due Date Calculator Opens a new window](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/due-date-calculator\/)\n- [Ovulation Calculator Opens a new window](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/ovulation-calculator\/)\n- [Chinese Gender Predictor Opens a new window](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/pregnancy\/preparing-for-baby\/chinese-gender-predictor-chart\/)\n\nCommunity Groups\n\n- [Trying to Conceive Opens a new window](https:\/\/community.whattoexpect.com\/forums\/trying-to-conceive.html)\n- [Birthing Options Opens a new window](https:\/\/community.whattoexpect.com\/forums\/birthing-options.html)\n- [Breastfeeding Opens a new window](https:\/\/community.whattoexpect.com\/forums\/breastfeeding.html)\n- [Baby Names Opens a new window](https:\/\/community.whattoexpect.com\/forums\/baby-name-game.html)\n\nBirth Month Groups\n\n- [Jan 2026 Babies Opens a new window](https:\/\/community.whattoexpect.com\/forums\/january-2026-babies.html)\n- [Feb 2026 Babies Opens a new window](https:\/\/community.whattoexpect.com\/forums\/february-2026-babies.html)\n- [Mar 2026 Babies Opens a new window](https:\/\/community.whattoexpect.com\/forums\/march-2026-babies.html)\n- [Apr 2026 Babies Opens a new window](https:\/\/community.whattoexpect.com\/forums\/april-2026-babies.html)\n\n![](https:\/\/zdbb.net\/l\/z0WVjCBSEeGLoxIxOQVEwQ\/) ![](https:\/\/b.scorecardresearch.com\/b?c1=2&c2=6035818&c3=&c4=window.location.hostname%20+%20window.location.pathname&c5=&c6=&c15=&cv=1.3&cj=1)","attrs_readable_markdown":"[![author image](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/Jennifer-Kelly-Geddes-bio.jpg)](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/authors\/jenniferkelly-geddes-1490)\n\nYou know your baby is tired and ready for bed, so why is she suddenly protesting? Here are a few reasons behind it and some tips for ending the war on sleep.\n\nBack to Top ![Back to Top](https:\/\/images.agoramedia.com\/wte3.0\/gcms\/redesign\/back-to-top-button.svg)\n\n- [Why does my baby fight sleep?](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#why)\n- [How do I get my baby to stop fighting sleep?](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#how)\n\nBabies and their new parents look forward to bedtime and enjoy the familiar tuck-in routine. But even after a nice warm bath, one last feeding and that special ditty you croon each night, your baby might fight the sleep that you're sure she's ready for.\n\n\"My girl cries going down for every single nap,\" says What to Expect Community user Recu717. \"The more tired she is, the worse the fight is.\"\n\nTake heart and know that while [protesting the crib](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-wont-sleep-in-crib\/) put-down is pretty common, there are several potential reasons behind it.\\[1\\] Read on for more so you can get your babe back on the bedtime track.\n\n**Common causes for babies fighting sleep** include overtiredness, overstimulation, sleep regressions, separation anxiety, teething pain, developmental milestones, travel disruptions, dropping naps, or simply needing less sleep as they grow.\n\n**To help your little one get to sleep,** stick to a consistent routine, watch for early drowsy cues, keep the environment calm, try to follow age-appropriate wake windows, and offer plenty of daytime practice for any milestones your child is working on mastering.\n\n**Remember, too, that your baby's sleep schedule will change with time.** Be flexible with bedtime, naps, and routines — and rest assured that sleep resistance is usually a normal, passing phase.\n## Why does my baby fight sleep?\nA few tears at bedtime are standard operating procedure for most babies. In fact, many babies can't get to sleep without crying first. But if the fuss goes on and on, even after you’ve ruled out hunger, a wet or dirty diaper, and illness, consider these other factors:\n\n- **[Overtired baby](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/overtired-baby\/).** It may sound a little crazy, but not getting enough Zzzs can lead to a baby who’s so wiped out she's wired and has trouble settling down at night.\n- **Overstimulated baby.** A bright, busy household, screens, beeping toys, or a crying spell can be too much to handle, resulting in overstimulation and the urge to fight sleep. Try to avoid stimulating activities at least an hour before baby's bedtime.\\[2\\]\n- **[Sleep regression](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/sleep-regression\/).** This setback in your baby’s regular nighttime routine can crop up throughout the first year, including at [4 months](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/4-month-sleep-regression\/), 6 months, [between 8 and 10 months](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/8-month-sleep-regression\/), and once more at 12 months.\n- **[Separation anxiety](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/week-10\/separation-anxiety.aspx).** Around 8 months (though it can happen a bit earlier or later), this clingy phase may kick in, resulting in tears when you leave your babe alone in the crib.\\[3\\]\n- **[Teething](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/teething\/).** Most infants start to cut teeth around 6 months (though it can happen earlier or later), and teething pain can cause a baby to wail and fight sleep.\\[4\\]\n- **Hitting a milestone.** Babbling, rolling, sitting up, crawling, and walking are all [big developmental milestones](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/milestones\/) that some infants like to practice at night.\n- **Traveling.** A vacation means a different crib or a shift in the usual bedtime schedule, which can prompt a baby to fight sleep.\n- **Baby's not tired.** Between 1 and 2 years, babies sleep 11 to 14 hours, rather than the 12 to 16 hours they logged when they were younger. If your baby isn’t hitting the hay easily, she may not need as many Zzzs now.\\[5\\]\n- **Baby dropped a nap.** Around 12 to 15 months, babies start to skip their morning nap, so if yours isn’t keen to be put down, it could signal she's a one-nap tot from now on.\n## How do I get my baby to stop fighting sleep?\nConsistency is key when it comes to getting your baby to stop fighting sleep. Your best bet is to stick to your plan and the tuck-in should become easier over time. Here's how:\n\n- **Memorize drowsy signs.** An overtired baby is too worked up to sleep, so strive to spot the signs that she’s drowsy, such as yawning, ear pulling, eye rubbing, [thumb sucking](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/ask-heidi\/thumb-sucking-baby.aspx), and fussing.\\[6\\]\n- **Keep things low-key.** Overstimulation can be caused by too many people around, bright lights, or a noisy environment. Do what you can to remove your baby from the din.\n- **Practice separating.** You go away, but you always return. Teach this by leaving the room for a few seconds at a time and your tot will get better at being away from you.\n- **Get to know your baby’s \"[wake windows](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/wake-windows),\"** or the amount of time your baby can handle being awake at a stretch, which varies by age. A 1-month-old, for instance, can be awake for about an hour at a time, and a 3-month-old can go for up to two hours. \"\\[My baby\\] delays naps and night sleep by up to an hour, which makes him overtired,\" says What to Expect Community user meghanelizabeth912. \"Slightly longer daytime wake windows has helped us.\"\n- **Make daytime for playtime.** Give your sweetie lots of practice with her newly minted milestones (sitting up, crawling) so she nixes the urge to try them at night and stops fighting sleep.\n- **Take the routine on the road.** Bath, bottle, cuddle, bed! Babies with a solid [bedtime routine](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-bedtime-routine\/) will cry less and sleep more, so stay the course even when you’re traveling.\n- **Change her bedtime.** A bigger baby needs a little less shut-eye, so be ready to push your little one's bedtime back a bit as she ages.\n- **Plan a longer afternoon nap.** If your babe seems ready to drop her morning nap, consider moving lunch up a bit and putting her down for a longer afternoon snooze.\\[7\\]\n\nWondering if your fussy baby will ever settle down in the crib? Keep in mind that fighting sleep is likely due to a predictable phase. Once you’ve identified the issue, you can help her through it and then ease her back to the sleep you’re both craving.\n\nIs your little one still fighting sleep? Open the [What to Expect app](https:\/\/wte.onelink.me\/85iI\/7s0l3a5z) for more tips on implementing a healthy sleep routine, plus a community of parents who have been there.\n\nFrom the What to Expect editorial team and [Heidi Murkoff,](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/about-heidi-murkoff\/) author of *What to Expect When You're Expecting*. What to Expect follows strict reporting guidelines and uses only credible sources, such as peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions and highly respected health organizations. Learn how we keep our content accurate and up-to-date by reading our [medical review and editorial policy](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/medical-review\/).\n\n### Sources\n1. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Getting Your Baby to Sleep Opens a new window](https:\/\/www.healthychildren.org\/English\/ages-stages\/baby\/sleep\/Pages\/Getting-Your-Baby-to-Sleep.aspx), June 2024. \\| [Show in the article](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#1-inline)\n2. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Why to Avoid TV for Infants & Toddlers Opens a new window](https:\/\/www.healthychildren.org\/English\/family-life\/Media\/Pages\/Why-to-Avoid-TV-Before-Age-2.aspx), October 2016. \\| [Show in the article](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#2-inline)\n3. American Academy of Pediatrics, [How to Ease Your Child%u2019s Separation Anxiety Opens a new window](https:\/\/www.healthychildren.org\/English\/ages-stages\/toddler\/Pages\/Soothing-Your-Childs-Separation-Anxiety.aspx), January 2025. \\| [Show in the article](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#3-inline)\n4. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Teething & Tooth Care Opens a new window](https:\/\/www.healthychildren.org\/English\/ages-stages\/baby\/teething-tooth-care\/Pages\/default.aspx), 2025. \\| [Show in the article](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#4-inline)\n5. Mayo Clinic, [Helping Baby Sleep Through the Night Opens a new window](https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/healthy-lifestyle\/infant-and-toddler-health\/in-depth\/baby-sleep\/art-20045014), February 2025. \\| [Show in the article](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#5-inline)\n6. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Responding To Your Baby's Cries Opens a new window](https:\/\/www.healthychildren.org\/English\/ages-stages\/baby\/crying-colic\/Pages\/Responding-to-Your-Babys-Cries.aspx), February 2025. \\| [Show in the article](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#6-inline)\n7. Harvard Health Publishing, [Naps: Make the Most of Them and Know When to Stop Them Opens a new window](https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/blog\/naps-make-the-most-of-them-and-know-when-to-stop-them-2018091114800), December 2021. \\| [Show in the article](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/baby-fighting-sleep\/#7-inline)\n8. *What to Expect the First Year*, 3rd edition, Heidi Murkoff.\n9. WhatToExpect.com, [11 Reasons Your Baby Won't Sleep and How to Cope](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/baby-sleep-problems.aspx), July 2025.\n10. WhatToExpect.com, [Could Your Baby Be Going Through a 12-Month Sleep Regression?](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/12-month-sleep-regression\/), February 2022.\n11. WhatToExpect.com, [How to Get Your Baby to Sleep Anywhere](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/sleep-strategies\/get-your-baby-to-sleep-anywhere.aspx), August 2022.\n12. WhatToExpect.com, [Signs of an Overtired Baby](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/overtired-baby\/#Signs), February 2022.\n13. WhatToExpect.com, [What Do Your Baby’s Cries Mean?](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/week-10\/decoding-cries.aspx), June 2021.\n14. WhatToExpect.com, [What Is Sleep Regression?](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/sleep-regression\/), July 2025.\n15. WhatToExpect.com.com, [When Do Babies Start Crawling?](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/crawling\/), August 2023.\n16. WhatToExpect.com.com, [Understanding Wake Windows by Age and How to Time Baby's Naps for Better Sleep](https:\/\/www.whattoexpect.com\/first-year\/sleep\/wake-windows), August 2025.\n17. American Academy of Pediatrics, [How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained](https:\/\/www.healthychildren.org\/English\/ages-stages\/baby\/sleep\/Pages\/A-Parents-Guide-to-Safe-Sleep.aspx), June 2025.\n18. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Emotional and Social Development: 8 to 12 Months](https:\/\/www.healthychildren.org\/English\/ages-stages\/baby\/Pages\/Emotional-and-Social-Development-8-12-Months.aspx), August 2009.\n19. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Healthy Digital Media Use Habits for Babies, Toddlers & Preschoolers](https:\/\/www.healthychildren.org\/English\/family-life\/Media\/Pages\/Healthy-Digital-Media-Use-Habits-for-Babies-Toddlers-Preschoolers.aspx), July 2022.\n20. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Where We Stand: Screen Time](https:\/\/www.healthychildren.org\/English\/family-life\/Media\/Pages\/Where-We-Stand-TV-Viewing-Time.aspx), December 2023.\n21. Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, [Infant Sleep](https:\/\/www.chop.edu\/primary-care\/infant-sleep), 2025.\n22. Johns Hopkins Medicine, [Newborn Sleep Patterns](https:\/\/www.hopkinsmedicine.org\/health\/wellness-and-prevention\/newborn-sleep-patterns), 2025.\n\n**August 17, 2025**\n\nEditors: Kathleen Felton\/Catherine Donaldson-Evans\n\n- Light copy changes and updates to sourcing.\n- Fact-checked for accuracy.\n\nWas this article helpful?","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Title	How to Get Your Baby to Stop Fighting Sleep
Meta Description	From being overtired to separation anxiety, there are a number of reasons why your baby may fight sleep. Here are the best solutions for when that happens.
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Boilerpipe Text	You know your baby is tired and ready for bed, so why is she suddenly protesting? Here are a few reasons behind it and some tips for ending the war on sleep. Back to Top Why does my baby fight sleep? How do I get my baby to stop fighting sleep? Babies and their new parents look forward to bedtime and enjoy the familiar tuck-in routine. But even after a nice warm bath, one last feeding and that special ditty you croon each night, your baby might fight the sleep that you're sure she's ready for. "My girl cries going down for every single nap," says What to Expect Community user Recu717. "The more tired she is, the worse the fight is." Take heart and know that while protesting the crib put-down is pretty common, there are several potential reasons behind it. [1] Read on for more so you can get your babe back on the bedtime track. Common causes for babies fighting sleep include overtiredness, overstimulation, sleep regressions, separation anxiety, teething pain, developmental milestones, travel disruptions, dropping naps, or simply needing less sleep as they grow. To help your little one get to sleep, stick to a consistent routine, watch for early drowsy cues, keep the environment calm, try to follow age-appropriate wake windows, and offer plenty of daytime practice for any milestones your child is working on mastering. Remember, too, that your baby's sleep schedule will change with time. Be flexible with bedtime, naps, and routines — and rest assured that sleep resistance is usually a normal, passing phase. Why does my baby fight sleep? A few tears at bedtime are standard operating procedure for most babies. In fact, many babies can't get to sleep without crying first. But if the fuss goes on and on, even after you’ve ruled out hunger, a wet or dirty diaper, and illness, consider these other factors: Overtired baby . It may sound a little crazy, but not getting enough Zzzs can lead to a baby who’s so wiped out she's wired and has trouble settling down at night. Overstimulated baby. A bright, busy household, screens, beeping toys, or a crying spell can be too much to handle, resulting in overstimulation and the urge to fight sleep. Try to avoid stimulating activities at least an hour before baby's bedtime. [2] Sleep regression . This setback in your baby’s regular nighttime routine can crop up throughout the first year, including at 4 months , 6 months, between 8 and 10 months , and once more at 12 months. Separation anxiety . Around 8 months (though it can happen a bit earlier or later), this clingy phase may kick in, resulting in tears when you leave your babe alone in the crib. [3] Teething . Most infants start to cut teeth around 6 months (though it can happen earlier or later), and teething pain can cause a baby to wail and fight sleep. [4] Hitting a milestone. Babbling, rolling, sitting up, crawling, and walking are all big developmental milestones that some infants like to practice at night. Traveling. A vacation means a different crib or a shift in the usual bedtime schedule, which can prompt a baby to fight sleep. Baby's not tired. Between 1 and 2 years, babies sleep 11 to 14 hours, rather than the 12 to 16 hours they logged when they were younger. If your baby isn’t hitting the hay easily, she may not need as many Zzzs now. [5] Baby dropped a nap. Around 12 to 15 months, babies start to skip their morning nap, so if yours isn’t keen to be put down, it could signal she's a one-nap tot from now on. How do I get my baby to stop fighting sleep? Consistency is key when it comes to getting your baby to stop fighting sleep. Your best bet is to stick to your plan and the tuck-in should become easier over time. Here's how: Memorize drowsy signs. An overtired baby is too worked up to sleep, so strive to spot the signs that she’s drowsy, such as yawning, ear pulling, eye rubbing, thumb sucking , and fussing. [6] Keep things low-key. Overstimulation can be caused by too many people around, bright lights, or a noisy environment. Do what you can to remove your baby from the din. Practice separating. You go away, but you always return. Teach this by leaving the room for a few seconds at a time and your tot will get better at being away from you. Get to know your baby’s " wake windows ," or the amount of time your baby can handle being awake at a stretch, which varies by age. A 1-month-old, for instance, can be awake for about an hour at a time, and a 3-month-old can go for up to two hours. "[My baby] delays naps and night sleep by up to an hour, which makes him overtired," says What to Expect Community user meghanelizabeth912. "Slightly longer daytime wake windows has helped us." Make daytime for playtime. Give your sweetie lots of practice with her newly minted milestones (sitting up, crawling) so she nixes the urge to try them at night and stops fighting sleep. Take the routine on the road. Bath, bottle, cuddle, bed! Babies with a solid bedtime routine will cry less and sleep more, so stay the course even when you’re traveling. Change her bedtime. A bigger baby needs a little less shut-eye, so be ready to push your little one's bedtime back a bit as she ages. Plan a longer afternoon nap. If your babe seems ready to drop her morning nap, consider moving lunch up a bit and putting her down for a longer afternoon snooze. [7] Wondering if your fussy baby will ever settle down in the crib? Keep in mind that fighting sleep is likely due to a predictable phase. Once you’ve identified the issue, you can help her through it and then ease her back to the sleep you’re both craving. Is your little one still fighting sleep? Open the What to Expect app for more tips on implementing a healthy sleep routine, plus a community of parents who have been there. From the What to Expect editorial team and Heidi Murkoff, author of What to Expect When You're Expecting . What to Expect follows strict reporting guidelines and uses only credible sources, such as peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions and highly respected health organizations. Learn how we keep our content accurate and up-to-date by reading our medical review and editorial policy . Sources American Academy of Pediatrics, Getting Your Baby to Sleep Opens a new window , June 2024. \| Show in the article American Academy of Pediatrics, Why to Avoid TV for Infants & Toddlers Opens a new window , October 2016. \| Show in the article American Academy of Pediatrics, How to Ease Your Child%u2019s Separation Anxiety Opens a new window , January 2025. \| Show in the article American Academy of Pediatrics, Teething & Tooth Care Opens a new window , 2025. \| Show in the article Mayo Clinic, Helping Baby Sleep Through the Night Opens a new window , February 2025. \| Show in the article American Academy of Pediatrics, Responding To Your Baby's Cries Opens a new window , February 2025. \| Show in the article Harvard Health Publishing, Naps: Make the Most of Them and Know When to Stop Them Opens a new window , December 2021. \| Show in the article What to Expect the First Year , 3rd edition, Heidi Murkoff. WhatToExpect.com, 11 Reasons Your Baby Won't Sleep and How to Cope , July 2025. WhatToExpect.com, Could Your Baby Be Going Through a 12-Month Sleep Regression? , February 2022. WhatToExpect.com, How to Get Your Baby to Sleep Anywhere , August 2022. WhatToExpect.com, Signs of an Overtired Baby , February 2022. WhatToExpect.com, What Do Your Baby’s Cries Mean? , June 2021. WhatToExpect.com, What Is Sleep Regression? , July 2025. WhatToExpect.com.com, When Do Babies Start Crawling? , August 2023. WhatToExpect.com.com, Understanding Wake Windows by Age and How to Time Baby's Naps for Better Sleep , August 2025. American Academy of Pediatrics, How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained , June 2025. American Academy of Pediatrics, Emotional and Social Development: 8 to 12 Months , August 2009. American Academy of Pediatrics, Healthy Digital Media Use Habits for Babies, Toddlers & Preschoolers , July 2022. American Academy of Pediatrics, Where We Stand: Screen Time , December 2023. Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Infant Sleep , 2025. Johns Hopkins Medicine, Newborn Sleep Patterns , 2025. August 17, 2025 Editors: Kathleen Felton/Catherine Donaldson-Evans Light copy changes and updates to sourcing. Fact-checked for accuracy. Was this article helpful?
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![preview image](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/Gassy-Baby-article.jpg) [How to Help a Gassy Baby](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/care/gassy-baby/) - ![preview image](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/6-Ways-to-Establish-a-Blissful-Baby-Bedtime-Routine-article.jpg) [11 Reasons Your Baby Won't Sleep](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/baby-sleep-problems.aspx) - ![preview image](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/Gripe-Water-for-Newborns-and-Babies-article.jpg) [Gripe Water for Babies](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/gripe-water) - ![preview image](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/Sleep-Regression-101-article.jpg) [What is Sleep Regression?](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/sleep-regression/) TOOLS - ![tool item](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/feed-tracker-in-app-2021-article.jpg) [Baby Tracker](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/baby-feeding/what-to-expect-baby-feeding-tracker) - ![tool item](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/Birth-Chart_Tool-Icon.svg) [Birth Chart Calculator](https://www.whattoexpect.com/birth-chart-calculator/) Toddler - 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![preview image](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/toddler-food-strikes-article.jpg) [Why Toddlers Refuse to Eat and What to Do](https://www.whattoexpect.com/toddler/behavior/food-strikes.aspx) - ![preview image](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/refusing-to-poop-article.jpg) [What to Do if Your Toddler Refuses to Poop](https://www.whattoexpect.com/toddler/behavior/potty-training-problem-refusing-to-poop.aspx) Family - [Second Time Parents](https://www.whattoexpect.com/family/second-time-parents/) - [Relationships](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/parent-time/relationship-after-becoming-parents/) - [Recipes](https://www.whattoexpect.com/family/recipes/) - [See All Family Topics](https://www.whattoexpect.com/family/) RECOMMENDED READING - ![preview image](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/how-far-apart-should-you-space-your-kids-article.jpg) [What is the Best Age Gap Between Kids?](https://www.whattoexpect.com/family/child-spacing) - ![preview image](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/b-is-for-big-brother-cheerilycoshop-article.jpg) [10 Best Second Pregnancy Announcements to Celebrate Baby Number Two (or Three!)](https://www.whattoexpect.com/family/second-time-parents/second-baby-pregnancy-announcements/) - ![preview image](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/When-to-have-a-baby-shower-article.jpg) [When Is the Best Time to Have Your Baby Shower?](https://www.whattoexpect.com/family/celebrations/when-to-have-a-baby-shower/) Baby Names - [Top Baby Names for Boys](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-names/list/top-baby-names-for-boys/) - [Top Baby Names for Girls](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-names/list/top-baby-names-for-girls/) - [Unique Girl Names](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-names/unique-baby-girl-names/) - [Unique Boy Names](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-names/unique-baby-boy-names/) - [See All Baby Names Topics](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-names/) RECOMMENDED READING - ![preview image](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/A-Boy-Name-article.jpg) [Top Baby Boy Names That Start With A](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-names/list/baby-boy-names-that-start-with-a/) - ![preview image](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/J-girl-name-article.jpg) [Top Baby Girl Names That Start With J](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-names/list/baby-girl-names-that-start-with-j/) - ![preview image](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/M-girl-Name-article.jpg) [Top Baby Girl Names That Start With M](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-names/list/baby-girl-names-that-start-with-m/) - ![preview image](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/S-Girl-Name-article.jpg) [Top Baby Girl Names That Start With S](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-names/list/baby-girl-names-that-start-with-s/) - ![preview image](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/k-boy-name-article.jpg) [Top Baby Boy Names That Start With K](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-names/list/baby-boy-names-that-start-with-k/) Registry - [Registry Checklist](https://registry.whattoexpect.com/baby-registry/dashboard?checklist-panel&rm_source=navbar) - [My Registries](https://registry.whattoexpect.com/baby-registry/dashboard?registries-panel&rm_source=navbar) - [Registry 101](https://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/baby-registry/) - [See All Registry](https://registry.whattoexpect.com/baby-registry/home?rm_source=navbar) Product Reviews - 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![tool item](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/first-trimester-must-haves-march-2022-article.jpg) [First Trimester Must-Haves](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-products/pregnancy/first-trimester-pregnancy-must-haves/) - ![tool item](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/your-second-trimester-survival-kit-aug-2022-alt-article.jpg) [Second Trimester Must-Haves](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-products/pregnancy/second-trimester-pregnancy-must-haves/) - ![tool item](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/third-trimester-must-haves-aug-2022-article.jpg) [Third Trimester Must-Haves](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-products/pregnancy/third-trimester-pregnancy-must-haves/) Community Groups - [Featured & Popular](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/featured-and-popular) - [Birth Month Groups](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/birth-month) - [Getting Pregnant](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/getting-pregnant) - [Pregnancy](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/pregnancy) - [First Year](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/first-year) - [Family](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/families) - [Health](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/health) - [Stages](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/stages) - [International](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/international) - [United States](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/united-states) - [All Groups A-Z](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/all) - [See All Community Groups](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/) News [First Year](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/) \> [Sleep](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/) # How to Get Your Baby to Stop Fighting Sleep [![author image](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/Jennifer-Kelly-Geddes-bio.jpg)](https://www.whattoexpect.com/authors/jenniferkelly-geddes-1490) by [Jennifer Kelly Geddes](https://www.whattoexpect.com/authors/jenniferkelly-geddes-1490) ![reviewed mark](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms//redesign/review_shield_icon.svg) Medically Reviewed by [Micah Resnick, M.D., F.A.A.P.](https://www.whattoexpect.com/reviewers/micah-resnick-14) ![Medically Reviewed](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms//redesign/review_shield_icon.svg) Medical Review Policy All What to Expect content that addresses health or safety is medically reviewed by a team of vetted health professionals. Our Medical Review Board includes OB/GYNs, pediatricians, infectious disease specialists, doulas, lactation counselors, endocrinologists, fertility specialists and more. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're reading. Learn more about [our editorial and medical review policies](https://www.whattoexpect.com/medical-review/). \\| [August 17, 2025](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/) Latest update: Light copy changes, updates to sourcing, fact-checked for accuracy. [See more](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#articleInfo) Dissolve ![baby fighting sleep, sleepy baby held in mom's arms](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/how-to-get-your-baby-to-stop-fighting-sleep-722x406.jpg) You know your baby is tired and ready for bed, so why is she suddenly protesting? Here are a few reasons behind it and some tips for ending the war on sleep. Back to Top ![Back to Top](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/redesign/back-to-top-button.svg) In This Article - [Why does my baby fight sleep?](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#why) - [How do I get my baby to stop fighting sleep?](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#how) Babies and their new parents look forward to bedtime and enjoy the familiar tuck-in routine. But even after a nice warm bath, one last feeding and that special ditty you croon each night, your baby might fight the sleep that you're sure she's ready for. "My girl cries going down for every single nap," says What to Expect Community user Recu717. "The more tired she is, the worse the fight is." Take heart and know that while [protesting the crib](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-wont-sleep-in-crib/) put-down is pretty common, there are several potential reasons behind it. Trusted Source[American Academy of Pediatrics](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#1)Getting Your Baby to Sleep[See All Sources](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#sourceAccordion) [\[1\]]() Read on for more so you can get your babe back on the bedtime track. ![summary icon](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/redesign/key_takeaways.svg) Key Takeaways Common causes for babies fighting sleep include overtiredness, overstimulation, sleep regressions, separation anxiety, teething pain, developmental milestones, travel disruptions, dropping naps, or simply needing less sleep as they grow. To help your little one get to sleep, stick to a consistent routine, watch for early drowsy cues, keep the environment calm, try to follow age-appropriate wake windows, and offer plenty of daytime practice for any milestones your child is working on mastering. Remember, too, that your baby's sleep schedule will change with time. Be flexible with bedtime, naps, and routines — and rest assured that sleep resistance is usually a normal, passing phase. ## Why does my baby fight sleep? A few tears at bedtime are standard operating procedure for most babies. In fact, many babies can't get to sleep without crying first. But if the fuss goes on and on, even after you’ve ruled out hunger, a wet or dirty diaper, and illness, consider these other factors: - [Overtired baby](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/overtired-baby/). It may sound a little crazy, but not getting enough Zzzs can lead to a baby who’s so wiped out she's wired and has trouble settling down at night. - Overstimulated baby. A bright, busy household, screens, beeping toys, or a crying spell can be too much to handle, resulting in overstimulation and the urge to fight sleep. Try to avoid stimulating activities at least an hour before baby's bedtime. Trusted Source[American Academy of Pediatrics](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#2)Why to Avoid TV for Infants & Toddlers[See All Sources](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#sourceAccordion) [\[2\]]() - [Sleep regression](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/sleep-regression/). This setback in your baby’s regular nighttime routine can crop up throughout the first year, including at [4 months](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/4-month-sleep-regression/), 6 months, [between 8 and 10 months](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/8-month-sleep-regression/), and once more at 12 months. - [Separation anxiety](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/week-10/separation-anxiety.aspx). Around 8 months (though it can happen a bit earlier or later), this clingy phase may kick in, resulting in tears when you leave your babe alone in the crib. Trusted Source[American Academy of Pediatrics](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#3)How to Ease Your Child%u2019s Separation Anxiety[See All Sources](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#sourceAccordion) [\[3\]]() - [Teething](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/teething/). Most infants start to cut teeth around 6 months (though it can happen earlier or later), and teething pain can cause a baby to wail and fight sleep. Trusted Source[American Academy of Pediatrics](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#4)Teething & Tooth Care[See All Sources](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#sourceAccordion) [\[4\]]() - Hitting a milestone. Babbling, rolling, sitting up, crawling, and walking are all [big developmental milestones](https://www.whattoexpect.com/milestones/) that some infants like to practice at night. - Traveling. A vacation means a different crib or a shift in the usual bedtime schedule, which can prompt a baby to fight sleep. - Baby's not tired. Between 1 and 2 years, babies sleep 11 to 14 hours, rather than the 12 to 16 hours they logged when they were younger. If your baby isn’t hitting the hay easily, she may not need as many Zzzs now. Trusted Source[Mayo Clinic](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#5)Helping Baby Sleep Through the Night[See All Sources](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#sourceAccordion) [\[5\]]() - Baby dropped a nap. Around 12 to 15 months, babies start to skip their morning nap, so if yours isn’t keen to be put down, it could signal she's a one-nap tot from now on. ## How do I get my baby to stop fighting sleep? Consistency is key when it comes to getting your baby to stop fighting sleep. Your best bet is to stick to your plan and the tuck-in should become easier over time. Here's how: [![](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/baby-tracker-sep-2024.png)Track your baby's sleep with the Baby Tracker tool in our free app![](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/redesign/chevron-right.svg) Opens a new window](https://wte.onelink.me/85iI/k4d5p53l) - Memorize drowsy signs. An overtired baby is too worked up to sleep, so strive to spot the signs that she’s drowsy, such as yawning, ear pulling, eye rubbing, [thumb sucking](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/ask-heidi/thumb-sucking-baby.aspx), and fussing. Trusted Source[American Academy of Pediatrics](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#6)Responding To Your Baby's Cries[See All Sources](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#sourceAccordion) [\[6\]]() - Keep things low-key. Overstimulation can be caused by too many people around, bright lights, or a noisy environment. Do what you can to remove your baby from the din. - Practice separating. You go away, but you always return. Teach this by leaving the room for a few seconds at a time and your tot will get better at being away from you. - Get to know your baby’s "[wake windows](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/wake-windows)," or the amount of time your baby can handle being awake at a stretch, which varies by age. A 1-month-old, for instance, can be awake for about an hour at a time, and a 3-month-old can go for up to two hours. "\[My baby\] delays naps and night sleep by up to an hour, which makes him overtired," says What to Expect Community user meghanelizabeth912. "Slightly longer daytime wake windows has helped us." - Make daytime for playtime. Give your sweetie lots of practice with her newly minted milestones (sitting up, crawling) so she nixes the urge to try them at night and stops fighting sleep. - Take the routine on the road. Bath, bottle, cuddle, bed! Babies with a solid [bedtime routine](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-bedtime-routine/) will cry less and sleep more, so stay the course even when you’re traveling. - Change her bedtime. A bigger baby needs a little less shut-eye, so be ready to push your little one's bedtime back a bit as she ages. - Plan a longer afternoon nap. If your babe seems ready to drop her morning nap, consider moving lunch up a bit and putting her down for a longer afternoon snooze. Trusted Source[Harvard Health Publishing](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#7)Naps: Make the Most of Them and Know When to Stop Them[See All Sources](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#sourceAccordion) [\[7\]]() Wondering if your fussy baby will ever settle down in the crib? Keep in mind that fighting sleep is likely due to a predictable phase. Once you’ve identified the issue, you can help her through it and then ease her back to the sleep you’re both craving. Is your little one still fighting sleep? Open the [What to Expect app](https://wte.onelink.me/85iI/7s0l3a5z) for more tips on implementing a healthy sleep routine, plus a community of parents who have been there. From the What to Expect editorial team and [Heidi Murkoff,](https://www.whattoexpect.com/about-heidi-murkoff/) author of What to Expect When You're Expecting. What to Expect follows strict reporting guidelines and uses only credible sources, such as peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions and highly respected health organizations. Learn how we keep our content accurate and up-to-date by reading our [medical review and editorial policy](https://www.whattoexpect.com/medical-review/). ### Sources References 1. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Getting Your Baby to Sleep Opens a new window](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/sleep/Pages/Getting-Your-Baby-to-Sleep.aspx), June 2024. \\| [Show in the article](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#1-inline) 2. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Why to Avoid TV for Infants & Toddlers Opens a new window](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/Media/Pages/Why-to-Avoid-TV-Before-Age-2.aspx), October 2016. \\| [Show in the article](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#2-inline) 3. American Academy of Pediatrics, [How to Ease Your Child%u2019s Separation Anxiety Opens a new window](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/toddler/Pages/Soothing-Your-Childs-Separation-Anxiety.aspx), January 2025. \\| [Show in the article](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#3-inline) 4. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Teething & Tooth Care Opens a new window](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/teething-tooth-care/Pages/default.aspx), 2025. \\| [Show in the article](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#4-inline) 5. Mayo Clinic, [Helping Baby Sleep Through the Night Opens a new window](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/baby-sleep/art-20045014), February 2025. \\| [Show in the article](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#5-inline) 6. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Responding To Your Baby's Cries Opens a new window](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/crying-colic/Pages/Responding-to-Your-Babys-Cries.aspx), February 2025. \\| [Show in the article](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#6-inline) 7. Harvard Health Publishing, [Naps: Make the Most of Them and Know When to Stop Them Opens a new window](https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/naps-make-the-most-of-them-and-know-when-to-stop-them-2018091114800), December 2021. \\| [Show in the article](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#7-inline) 8. What to Expect the First Year, 3rd edition, Heidi Murkoff. 9. WhatToExpect.com, [11 Reasons Your Baby Won't Sleep and How to Cope](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/baby-sleep-problems.aspx), July 2025. 10. WhatToExpect.com, [Could Your Baby Be Going Through a 12-Month Sleep Regression?](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/12-month-sleep-regression/), February 2022. 11. WhatToExpect.com, [How to Get Your Baby to Sleep Anywhere](https://www.whattoexpect.com/sleep-strategies/get-your-baby-to-sleep-anywhere.aspx), August 2022. 12. WhatToExpect.com, [Signs of an Overtired Baby](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/overtired-baby/#Signs), February 2022. 13. WhatToExpect.com, [What Do Your Baby’s Cries Mean?](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/week-10/decoding-cries.aspx), June 2021. 14. WhatToExpect.com, [What Is Sleep Regression?](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/sleep-regression/), July 2025. 15. WhatToExpect.com.com, [When Do Babies Start Crawling?](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/crawling/), August 2023. 16. WhatToExpect.com.com, [Understanding Wake Windows by Age and How to Time Baby's Naps for Better Sleep](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/wake-windows), August 2025. 17. American Academy of Pediatrics, [How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/sleep/Pages/A-Parents-Guide-to-Safe-Sleep.aspx), June 2025. 18. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Emotional and Social Development: 8 to 12 Months](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/Pages/Emotional-and-Social-Development-8-12-Months.aspx), August 2009. 19. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Healthy Digital Media Use Habits for Babies, Toddlers & Preschoolers](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/Media/Pages/Healthy-Digital-Media-Use-Habits-for-Babies-Toddlers-Preschoolers.aspx), July 2022. 20. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Where We Stand: Screen Time](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/Media/Pages/Where-We-Stand-TV-Viewing-Time.aspx), December 2023. 21. Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, [Infant Sleep](https://www.chop.edu/primary-care/infant-sleep), 2025. 22. Johns Hopkins Medicine, [Newborn Sleep Patterns](https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/newborn-sleep-patterns), 2025. Updates history August 17, 2025 Editors: Kathleen Felton/Catherine Donaldson-Evans - Light copy changes and updates to sourcing. - Fact-checked for accuracy. Was this article helpful? [![this article was helpful](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms//icon-article-satisfied.png) Yes](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/) [![this article wasn't helpful](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms//icon-article-disappointed.png) No](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/) Thanks for the feedback. Want to share it with other parents too? [Leave a review Opens a new window](https://www.smartcustomer.com/biz-review?key=695c520dc22b8) Thanks for the feedback\! 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Find out what's normal and when to call the doctor.](https://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/fetal-development/changes-in-fetal-movement/) [![Signs You Are Having a Boy or Girl](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/predicting-babys-gender-article.jpg)Signs You Are Having a Boy or Girl Here are some clues to whether you're having a boy or a girl that have research behind them.](https://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/predicting-sex-of-baby) [![Braxton Hicks Contractions and False Labor](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/contractions-braxton-hicks-article.jpg)Braxton Hicks Contractions and False Labor How to tell the difference between these false labor signs and the real deal.](https://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/symptoms-and-solutions/braxton-hicks-contractions.aspx) Tools ![Pregnancy Due Date Calculator ](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/redesign/homepage-refresh-Due-Date-Calculator-Icon.svg) [Pregnancy Due Date Calculator](https://www.whattoexpect.com/due-date-calculator/) ![Conception Date Calculator](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/redesign/homepage-refresh-Due-Date-Calculator-Icon.svg) [Conception Date Calculator](https://www.whattoexpect.com/conception-date-calculator/) ![Pregnancy Weight Gain Calculator](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/redesign/homepage-refresh-Pregnancy-weight-gain-calculator-Icon.svg) [Pregnancy Weight Gain Calculator](https://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy-weight-gain-calculator) ![Chinese Gender Predictor](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/redesign/homepage-refresh-Gender_Predictor-Icon.svg) [Chinese Gender Predictor](https://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/preparing-for-baby/chinese-gender-predictor-chart/) Topics [Baby Month-by-Month](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/month-by-month/) [Postpartum Recovery](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/just-for-mom-postpartum/) [Newborns](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/newborn/) [Milestones](https://www.whattoexpect.com/milestones/) [Breastfeeding](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/breastfeeding/) [Bottle-Feeding](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/bottle-feeding/) [Introducing Solids](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/baby-feeding/) [Baby Sleep](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/) [Vaccines](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/child-immunizations/) [Sleep Schedules](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/baby-sleep-schedule.aspx) [Feeding Schedules](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/feeding-baby/how-to-get-baby-on-feeding-schedule/) [See All First Year Topics](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/) Recommended Reading [![When Do Baby Growth Spurts Happen?](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/growth-spurt-first-year-article.jpg)When Do Baby Growth Spurts Happen? 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Here's when they happen, how long they last and what you can do to help baby sleep better.](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/sleep-regression/) Tools ![Baby Tracker](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/feed-tracker-in-app-2021-article.jpg) [Baby Tracker](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/baby-feeding/what-to-expect-baby-feeding-tracker) ![Birth Chart Calculator](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/Birth-Chart_Tool-Icon.svg) [Birth Chart Calculator](https://www.whattoexpect.com/birth-chart-calculator/) Topics [Toddler Month-by-Month](https://www.whattoexpect.com/toddler/growth-and-development/month-by-month/) [Feeding Your Toddler](https://www.whattoexpect.com/toddler/eating-and-nutrition/) [Toddler Sleep](https://www.whattoexpect.com/toddler/toddler-sleep/) [Potty Training](https://www.whattoexpect.com/toddler/potty-training/) [See All Toddler Topics](https://www.whattoexpect.com/toddler/) Recommended Reading [![Why Is Your Toddler Waking Up Too Early and What Should You Do About It?](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/toddler-waking-early-article.jpg)Why Is Your Toddler Waking Up Too Early and What Should You Do About It? 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There's no right or wrong time to celebrate your new arrival.](https://www.whattoexpect.com/family/celebrations/when-to-have-a-baby-shower/) Topics [Top Baby Names for Boys](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-names/list/top-baby-names-for-boys/) [Top Baby Names for Girls](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-names/list/top-baby-names-for-girls/) [Unique Girl Names](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-names/unique-baby-girl-names/) [Unique Boy Names](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-names/unique-baby-boy-names/) [See All Baby Names Topics](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-names/) Recommended Reading [![Top Baby Boy Names That Start With A](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/A-Boy-Name-article.jpg)Top Baby Boy Names That Start With A See the most popular baby boy names that start with the letter A.](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-names/list/baby-boy-names-that-start-with-a/) [![Top Baby Girl Names That Start With J](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/J-girl-name-article.jpg)Top Baby Girl Names That Start With J See the most popular baby girl names that start with the letter J.](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-names/list/baby-girl-names-that-start-with-j/) [![Top Baby Girl Names That Start With M](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/M-girl-Name-article.jpg)Top Baby Girl Names That Start With M See the most popular baby girl names that start with the letter M.](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-names/list/baby-girl-names-that-start-with-m/) [![Top Baby Girl Names That Start With S ](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/S-Girl-Name-article.jpg)Top Baby Girl Names That Start With S See the most popular baby girl names that start with the letter S.](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-names/list/baby-girl-names-that-start-with-s/) [![Top Baby Boy Names That Start With K](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/k-boy-name-article.jpg)Top Baby Boy Names That Start With K See the most popular baby boy names that start with the letter K.](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-names/list/baby-boy-names-that-start-with-k/) Topics [Registry Checklist](https://registry.whattoexpect.com/baby-registry/dashboard?checklist-panel&rm_source=navbar) [My Registries](https://registry.whattoexpect.com/baby-registry/dashboard?registries-panel&rm_source=navbar) [Registry 101](https://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/baby-registry/) [See All Registry](https://registry.whattoexpect.com/baby-registry/home?rm_source=navbar) Topics [Car Seats](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-products/car-seats/) [Maternity Clothes](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-products/maternity/) [Nursing & Feeding](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-products/nursing-feeding/) [Diapering](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-products/diapering-potty/diapering-essentials/) [Baby Monitors](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-products/baby-monitors/) [See All Baby Products](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-products/) Recommended Reading [![Best Baby Registries](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/best-baby-registries-oct-2024-article.jpg)Best Baby Registries A registry isn’t just a wishlist for loved ones (though it does help prevent those well-meaning but not-quite-your-style gifts). It’s also a personal baby gear checklist.](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-products/registry/best-baby-registries) [![Best Free Baby Samples](///images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/best-baby-samples-mar-2023-article.jpg)Best Free Baby Samples The best free baby sample boxes and subscriptions are those that include a wide variety of brands and products to test, especially baby essentials like diapers, wipes, pacifiers, bottles, baby lotion and more, and aren't too difficult to set up.](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-products/best-free-baby-samples/) [![Best Baby Deals](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/best-baby-sales-happening-dec-2022-article.jpg)Best Baby Deals We scoured the web for the best markdowns on brands that What to Expect parents love.](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-products/best-baby-deals/) Tools ![First Trimester Must-Haves](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/first-trimester-must-haves-march-2022-article.jpg) [First Trimester Must-Haves](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-products/pregnancy/first-trimester-pregnancy-must-haves/) ![Second Trimester Must-Haves](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/your-second-trimester-survival-kit-aug-2022-alt-article.jpg) [Second Trimester Must-Haves](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-products/pregnancy/second-trimester-pregnancy-must-haves/) ![Third Trimester Must-Haves](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/third-trimester-must-haves-aug-2022-article.jpg) [Third Trimester Must-Haves](https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-products/pregnancy/third-trimester-pregnancy-must-haves/) Topics [Featured & Popular](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/featured-and-popular) [Birth Month Groups](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/birth-month) [Getting Pregnant](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/getting-pregnant) [Pregnancy](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/pregnancy) [First Year](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/first-year) [Family](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/families) [Health](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/health) [Stages](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/stages) [International](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/international) [United States](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/united-states) [All Groups A-Z](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/all) [See All Community Groups](https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/) ## Ask What to Expect Ask our AI for answers you can trust – powered by What to Expect’s expert-backed content. 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Readable Markdown	[![author image](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/Jennifer-Kelly-Geddes-bio.jpg)](https://www.whattoexpect.com/authors/jenniferkelly-geddes-1490) You know your baby is tired and ready for bed, so why is she suddenly protesting? Here are a few reasons behind it and some tips for ending the war on sleep. Back to Top ![Back to Top](https://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/redesign/back-to-top-button.svg) - [Why does my baby fight sleep?](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#why) - [How do I get my baby to stop fighting sleep?](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#how) Babies and their new parents look forward to bedtime and enjoy the familiar tuck-in routine. But even after a nice warm bath, one last feeding and that special ditty you croon each night, your baby might fight the sleep that you're sure she's ready for. "My girl cries going down for every single nap," says What to Expect Community user Recu717. "The more tired she is, the worse the fight is." Take heart and know that while [protesting the crib](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-wont-sleep-in-crib/) put-down is pretty common, there are several potential reasons behind it.\[1\] Read on for more so you can get your babe back on the bedtime track. Common causes for babies fighting sleep include overtiredness, overstimulation, sleep regressions, separation anxiety, teething pain, developmental milestones, travel disruptions, dropping naps, or simply needing less sleep as they grow. To help your little one get to sleep, stick to a consistent routine, watch for early drowsy cues, keep the environment calm, try to follow age-appropriate wake windows, and offer plenty of daytime practice for any milestones your child is working on mastering. Remember, too, that your baby's sleep schedule will change with time. Be flexible with bedtime, naps, and routines — and rest assured that sleep resistance is usually a normal, passing phase. ## Why does my baby fight sleep? A few tears at bedtime are standard operating procedure for most babies. In fact, many babies can't get to sleep without crying first. But if the fuss goes on and on, even after you’ve ruled out hunger, a wet or dirty diaper, and illness, consider these other factors: - [Overtired baby](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/overtired-baby/). It may sound a little crazy, but not getting enough Zzzs can lead to a baby who’s so wiped out she's wired and has trouble settling down at night. - Overstimulated baby. A bright, busy household, screens, beeping toys, or a crying spell can be too much to handle, resulting in overstimulation and the urge to fight sleep. Try to avoid stimulating activities at least an hour before baby's bedtime.\[2\] - [Sleep regression](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/sleep-regression/). This setback in your baby’s regular nighttime routine can crop up throughout the first year, including at [4 months](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/4-month-sleep-regression/), 6 months, [between 8 and 10 months](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/8-month-sleep-regression/), and once more at 12 months. - [Separation anxiety](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/week-10/separation-anxiety.aspx). Around 8 months (though it can happen a bit earlier or later), this clingy phase may kick in, resulting in tears when you leave your babe alone in the crib.\[3\] - [Teething](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/teething/). Most infants start to cut teeth around 6 months (though it can happen earlier or later), and teething pain can cause a baby to wail and fight sleep.\[4\] - Hitting a milestone. Babbling, rolling, sitting up, crawling, and walking are all [big developmental milestones](https://www.whattoexpect.com/milestones/) that some infants like to practice at night. - Traveling. A vacation means a different crib or a shift in the usual bedtime schedule, which can prompt a baby to fight sleep. - Baby's not tired. Between 1 and 2 years, babies sleep 11 to 14 hours, rather than the 12 to 16 hours they logged when they were younger. If your baby isn’t hitting the hay easily, she may not need as many Zzzs now.\[5\] - Baby dropped a nap. Around 12 to 15 months, babies start to skip their morning nap, so if yours isn’t keen to be put down, it could signal she's a one-nap tot from now on. ## How do I get my baby to stop fighting sleep? Consistency is key when it comes to getting your baby to stop fighting sleep. Your best bet is to stick to your plan and the tuck-in should become easier over time. Here's how: - Memorize drowsy signs. An overtired baby is too worked up to sleep, so strive to spot the signs that she’s drowsy, such as yawning, ear pulling, eye rubbing, [thumb sucking](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/ask-heidi/thumb-sucking-baby.aspx), and fussing.\[6\] - Keep things low-key. Overstimulation can be caused by too many people around, bright lights, or a noisy environment. Do what you can to remove your baby from the din. - Practice separating. You go away, but you always return. Teach this by leaving the room for a few seconds at a time and your tot will get better at being away from you. - Get to know your baby’s "[wake windows](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/wake-windows)," or the amount of time your baby can handle being awake at a stretch, which varies by age. A 1-month-old, for instance, can be awake for about an hour at a time, and a 3-month-old can go for up to two hours. "\[My baby\] delays naps and night sleep by up to an hour, which makes him overtired," says What to Expect Community user meghanelizabeth912. "Slightly longer daytime wake windows has helped us." - Make daytime for playtime. Give your sweetie lots of practice with her newly minted milestones (sitting up, crawling) so she nixes the urge to try them at night and stops fighting sleep. - Take the routine on the road. Bath, bottle, cuddle, bed! Babies with a solid [bedtime routine](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-bedtime-routine/) will cry less and sleep more, so stay the course even when you’re traveling. - Change her bedtime. A bigger baby needs a little less shut-eye, so be ready to push your little one's bedtime back a bit as she ages. - Plan a longer afternoon nap. If your babe seems ready to drop her morning nap, consider moving lunch up a bit and putting her down for a longer afternoon snooze.\[7\] Wondering if your fussy baby will ever settle down in the crib? Keep in mind that fighting sleep is likely due to a predictable phase. Once you’ve identified the issue, you can help her through it and then ease her back to the sleep you’re both craving. Is your little one still fighting sleep? Open the [What to Expect app](https://wte.onelink.me/85iI/7s0l3a5z) for more tips on implementing a healthy sleep routine, plus a community of parents who have been there. From the What to Expect editorial team and [Heidi Murkoff,](https://www.whattoexpect.com/about-heidi-murkoff/) author of What to Expect When You're Expecting. What to Expect follows strict reporting guidelines and uses only credible sources, such as peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions and highly respected health organizations. Learn how we keep our content accurate and up-to-date by reading our [medical review and editorial policy](https://www.whattoexpect.com/medical-review/). ### Sources 1. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Getting Your Baby to Sleep Opens a new window](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/sleep/Pages/Getting-Your-Baby-to-Sleep.aspx), June 2024. \\| [Show in the article](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#1-inline) 2. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Why to Avoid TV for Infants & Toddlers Opens a new window](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/Media/Pages/Why-to-Avoid-TV-Before-Age-2.aspx), October 2016. \\| [Show in the article](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#2-inline) 3. American Academy of Pediatrics, [How to Ease Your Child%u2019s Separation Anxiety Opens a new window](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/toddler/Pages/Soothing-Your-Childs-Separation-Anxiety.aspx), January 2025. \\| [Show in the article](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#3-inline) 4. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Teething & Tooth Care Opens a new window](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/teething-tooth-care/Pages/default.aspx), 2025. \\| [Show in the article](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#4-inline) 5. Mayo Clinic, [Helping Baby Sleep Through the Night Opens a new window](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/baby-sleep/art-20045014), February 2025. \\| [Show in the article](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#5-inline) 6. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Responding To Your Baby's Cries Opens a new window](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/crying-colic/Pages/Responding-to-Your-Babys-Cries.aspx), February 2025. \\| [Show in the article](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#6-inline) 7. Harvard Health Publishing, [Naps: Make the Most of Them and Know When to Stop Them Opens a new window](https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/naps-make-the-most-of-them-and-know-when-to-stop-them-2018091114800), December 2021. \\| [Show in the article](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/baby-fighting-sleep/#7-inline) 8. What to Expect the First Year, 3rd edition, Heidi Murkoff. 9. WhatToExpect.com, [11 Reasons Your Baby Won't Sleep and How to Cope](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/baby-sleep-problems.aspx), July 2025. 10. WhatToExpect.com, [Could Your Baby Be Going Through a 12-Month Sleep Regression?](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/12-month-sleep-regression/), February 2022. 11. WhatToExpect.com, [How to Get Your Baby to Sleep Anywhere](https://www.whattoexpect.com/sleep-strategies/get-your-baby-to-sleep-anywhere.aspx), August 2022. 12. WhatToExpect.com, [Signs of an Overtired Baby](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/overtired-baby/#Signs), February 2022. 13. WhatToExpect.com, [What Do Your Baby’s Cries Mean?](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/week-10/decoding-cries.aspx), June 2021. 14. WhatToExpect.com, [What Is Sleep Regression?](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/sleep-regression/), July 2025. 15. WhatToExpect.com.com, [When Do Babies Start Crawling?](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/crawling/), August 2023. 16. WhatToExpect.com.com, [Understanding Wake Windows by Age and How to Time Baby's Naps for Better Sleep](https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/sleep/wake-windows), August 2025. 17. American Academy of Pediatrics, [How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/sleep/Pages/A-Parents-Guide-to-Safe-Sleep.aspx), June 2025. 18. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Emotional and Social Development: 8 to 12 Months](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/Pages/Emotional-and-Social-Development-8-12-Months.aspx), August 2009. 19. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Healthy Digital Media Use Habits for Babies, Toddlers & Preschoolers](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/Media/Pages/Healthy-Digital-Media-Use-Habits-for-Babies-Toddlers-Preschoolers.aspx), July 2022. 20. American Academy of Pediatrics, [Where We Stand: Screen Time](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/Media/Pages/Where-We-Stand-TV-Viewing-Time.aspx), December 2023. 21. Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, [Infant Sleep](https://www.chop.edu/primary-care/infant-sleep), 2025. 22. Johns Hopkins Medicine, [Newborn Sleep Patterns](https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/newborn-sleep-patterns), 2025. August 17, 2025 Editors: Kathleen Felton/Catherine Donaldson-Evans - Light copy changes and updates to sourcing. - Fact-checked for accuracy. Was this article helpful?
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