Understanding What "Drowsy But Awake" Really Means

Over the years, I’ve come to the conclusion that everyone has a different definition of “drowsy”. That’s fine, except when we’re talking about “drowsy but awake” and sleep coaching. And I’ve found that most parent’s don’t really know what “drowsy but awake” really means.

What “Drowsy But Awake” Really Means

When I talk about “drowsy but awake”, I mean that your child is awake enough to understand that it’s bedtime, you’re putting him in his crib, and it’s time to sleep.
I think that many parents get frustrated because their child goes just beyond that point into “almost asleep”. To truly understand “drowsy but awake”, please watch this Kids in the House video:

For more information and sleep tips for toddlers visit KidsInTheHouse.com.

Author: Kim West, MSW, Mom of 2, creator of The Sleep Lady Shuffle
My name is Kim West, and I’m the mother of two beautiful girls, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been a practicing child and family therapist for more than 21 years, and the creator of the original gentle, proven method to get a good night’s sleep for you and your child. My sleep journey began when I started experimenting with gently shaping my daughter’s sleep by not following the conventional wisdom at the time. After having success (and then more success with my second daughter!), I began helping family and friends and my step-by-step method spread like wildfire, exactly like an excellent night of sleep for a tired parent should!

Related Posts

afraid to sleep
Baby Sleep Problems
Catherine Trebble

When Can Babies Self-Soothe

When Can Babies Self-Soothe Every baby is unique, and while science gives us helpful trends, it’s important to watch your baby’s individual cues and readiness. Let’s take a closer look at what the research tells us—and how it aligns with what I’ve seen in over 25 years of supporting families

Read Blog
baby products from amazon
Sleep Training and Coaching
Kim West

CIO: Extinction Sleep Training | What It Is & If Its Safe

What is the cry it out method (extinction sleep training) The Cry-It-Out (CIO) method is a sleep training approach where parents allow their baby to cry for a set period without immediate intervention, with the goal of helping them learn to self-soothe and fall asleep independently. There are two main

Read Blog