"Drowsy but awake" means putting baby in crib sleepy but not fully asleep. Baby's eyes may be closing but they're still somewhat aware. This teaches baby to fall asleep independently without always needing feeding/rocking. Foundational skill for good sleep habits. Baby learns to self-soothe and put themselves to sleep. Makes it easier when baby wakes between sleep cycles at night. Confusing concept for parents - how drowsy is drowsy enough? Takes practice and won't work every time, especially with newborns.

Early morning waking: Baby consistently wakes 5-6am and won't go back to sleep, despite appropriate bedtime. Very common complaint in 6-12 month olds. Causes: Bedtime too early or too late, morning light in room, hunger (if dropped night feeding too soon), overtiredness, developmental leaps, learned habit. Biologically, lightest sleep occurs 4-6am (end of sleep cycle). Easier for baby to wake then vs. middle of night. Some babies are natural early risers.

Babies go through several nap transitions in first 2 years: 4→3 naps (~4 months), 3→2 naps (~6-9 months), 2→1 nap (~12-18 months). Signs ready to drop nap: Refuses one nap consistently, takes forever to fall asleep for naps, naps become very short, nighttime sleep disrupted, not tired at nap time. Transitions are gradual - takes 2-3 weeks of adjustment. Expect some crankiness and schedule chaos during transition period.