Overstimulation & Sensory Overload
Babies have immature nervous systems and can become overwhelmed by too much stimulation: noise, lights, activity, people, toys.
Signs of overstimulation: arching back, turning head away, avoiding eye contact, fussiness, crying, hiccups, yawning, clenched fists, jerky movements.
Newborns especially sensitive - can only handle 15-30 minutes of active play before needing break.
Overstimulation often causes evening fussiness and difficulty settling for sleep.
What to Do
- Watch for early signs: turning away, avoiding eye contact, yawning, fussiness
- Move to quiet, dim room immediately when you notice signs
- Reduce stimulation: turn off TV/music, dim lights, speak softly
- Hold baby close without too much movement or talking
- Swaddle to help baby feel contained and secure
- Limit visitors and activities - newborns need lots of quiet downtime
- Create calm bedtime routine in same dim, quiet environment every night
- Avoid busy environments during peak fussy times (often 4-8pm)