Night Wakings
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    Why 5 AM Feels Like Midnight: Fixing Early Wake-Ups

    Your baby is up at 5 AM—and it feels like the middle of the night. Learn what causes early wake-ups and how to gently shift them.

    Published June 18, 2025
    Why 5 AM Feels Like Midnight: Fixing Early Wake-Ups

    5 AM Is Not Morning

    If it’s dark and your baby is up—you're not alone.

    Early waking is often caused by:

    • Bedtime too late
    • Nap timing off
    • First feed too early
    • Too much light in the room
    • Under- or over-tiredness before bed

    Gentle Fixes That Work

    Not sure where to start? Discover your baby’s personalized plan.

    Plan My Baby's Sleep (Free)
    • Move bedtime earlier by 15 minutes
    • Cap the last nap appropriately
    • Use blackout curtains (hand test: can you see your hand?)
    • Use white noise to mask birds, trucks, etc.
    • Delay first feed by 10 minutes each day

    Final Thought

    Small changes can make a big difference. You don’t have to settle for sunrise parenting if you’re not ready.

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