The content provided on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have and to learn more about your child's specific needs.
Summer brings all kinds of magical moments—but it can also bring new and unexpected loud noises that may disrupt your baby’s sleep. Fireworks and thunderstorms are two examples of very loud events that may feel overwhelming to a baby who hasn’t experienced them before.
Here are a few tips to help you prepare and protect your little one’s rest during these noisy nights:
1. Stick to Your Bedtime Routine
Fireworks usually start after dark, often around 8:30 p.m. or later. Try putting your baby down by 7:30 or 8:00 p.m. so they’re already in a deeper stage of sleep when the noise begins. A consistent routine, such as a warm bath, storytime, and snuggles, signals to your baby that it’s time to wind down.
2. Create a Calming Sleep Environment
Keep your baby’s windows shut tightly to reduce outside noise. A white noise machine can be helpful—try placing it closer to the window and increasing the volume slightly to mask the booms. You can also add a fan (placed away from the crib) for extra white noise.
3. Respond with Comfort
Thunderstorms can be more unpredictable than fireworks. If your baby wakes up startled, it’s okay to offer extra comfort. Pick them up, rock them, or gently soothe them back to sleep. Trust your instincts—your presence is often the best remedy.
4. Protect their Hearing
If you’re out and about and expect fireworks or loud noises, baby earmuffs can be used to protect your baby’s hearing, but only while they are awake and supervised. Never put a baby to sleep wearing earmuffs, as this does not align with safe sleep guidelines.
5. Support Sleep with Peace of Mind
Knowing your baby is sleeping soundly can help you feel more relaxed, even during noisy nights. Owlet Dream Sock® offers real-time insights into your baby’s pulse rate, oxygen levels, and sleep trends. If your baby’s readings leave preset zones, you’ll get a notification via the Owlet Dream App and Base Station—helping you know when your baby needs you.
It’s an extra layer of peace of mind during unpredictable events like fireworks or storms, and a helpful companion for those moments when your baby’s sleep might be disrupted.
6. Give Yourself Grace
One challenging night won’t undo your baby’s sleep habits. Stick to your routine, offer comfort, and give yourself and your baby a little extra grace. Their hearing is much more sensitive than ours, and loud noises can feel startling. Keep your distance from fireworks displays and trust that things will settle back to normal soon.
