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Behavior & Comfort

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)

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