Overstimulation is when babies are exposed to more activities, noise, and experiences than they can handle. Overstimulated babies may deal with disturbed sleep and lack of enthusiasm. Under normal circumstances, activities such as playing may help children develop their sense of smell, sound, touch, and taste. These enable them to learn new things and develop their abilities. Over the years, there have been many proofs to indicate that stimulation enhances behavior and helps in brain development (1) (2). Therefore, parents should talk and play with their children often because it helps them build new connections in their brain cells, thus causing an effective overall development. However, you should identify when your little one is overstimulated and is looking disturbed. Keep reading the post to know more about the signs of overstimulation in babies, its causes, and ways to deal with it and avoid it.
What Is Overstimulation In Babies?
Overstimulation is a condition where your baby has had an overload of experiences. Babies may get overstimulated due to a lot of activity, noise, and sensation, as they cannot process it all. They need some time to calm down. An overstimulated baby ends up crying, and dramatic meltdowns are observed. Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children, Infant Mental Health Promotion director Chaya Kulkarni says, an occasional misreading of baby’s cues of overstimulation is inevitable and not a concern. But, “there’s always the chance that if the parent repeatedly doesn’t respond — if you continue trying to play the game or ignore their distress — the baby will zone out, withdraw, or mentally retreat,” she adds. Below is a list of some signs and symptoms which could indicate that the baby is overstimulated.
11 Signs Of Overstimulation (SOS) In Babies
To avoid overstimulating the baby, it is essential that you understand the signs of overstimulation (SOS) displayed by the baby. SOS can be classified into two types: Body SOS and Behavioral SOS (2). Body SOS: An overstimulated baby may show body SOS, such as: Behavioral SOS: Behavioral SOS include: Pay attention to the baby’s responses, and if you observe any of these SOS, decrease stimulation, and increase support. Bring down the tone and speak slowly. Simply holding the baby for a few minutes should do the trick. You may try swaddling the baby, encouraging them to suck, or simply swaying them a bit. All babies can get overstimulated now and then, but preterm babies or the ones with physical challenges frequently send SOS. Identifying the exact causes or overstimulation is essential to help in counteracting the problem and find a prompt resolution.
Causes Of Overstimulation
Here are the primary causes of overstimulation (3). Now that we know a few causes for overstimulation, it is important to look out for ways to manage it.
How To Deal With Overstimulated Babies?
If your baby has reached the limit, hold them close to you to soothe and reassure them calmly. A few babies may not like to be touched or picked if the situation is very stimulating. In such cases, take the baby to a quiet place, dim the lights, and minimize the activity. Swaddle them or talk gently. Offer them a feed or pacifier. They will settle down in some time (4). Get back to their schedule. See to it that they sleep, feed, and play. This consistency works wonders in babies. Stick to schedules to make them feel secure, loved, and attached. Above all, the best thing you can do is to trust your instinct and do what calms the baby down.
5 Ways To Avoid Overstimulation
Studies indicate that overstimulation in babies leads to behavioral differences and deficits in cognitive performance. So, it is better to avoid it, and it is not that difficult. The key lies in aiming for the right balance. It can be achieved by the following guidelines.
1. Keep an eye on early warning signs
Responding to the early warning signs from your baby is essential to prevent the baby from crying and becoming stressed. Too much fun can cause overstimulation, irrespective of the time of the day, and the baby may need a break. Figure out the signs and respond.
2. Time it well
Remember that timing means everything! Figure out the best time for your baby to be alert, content, and interested in socializing and plan accordingly. Most kids are happiest in the mornings and after afternoon naps. Check out a suitable time for your baby and go ahead with the activity or outing.
3. Preparation is the key
Plan your outings or gatherings well, so that the baby does not get overwhelmed. Take snacks, extra clothing, favorite toys, light blankets, and other essentials if you are heading out with your baby. Go to a quiet place if your baby is sensitive to crowds. Know your baby’s cues and share them with other family members handling the baby.
4. Take breaks
Plan well and ensure that your little one is prepared for the fun. They should have some time in between to communicate with you if they want to. If you notice that your baby is too excited or tired, have a little quiet time with them during breaks. Ensure that your baby is ready and shows engagement clues before finishing the break. These breaks are useful in avoiding overstimulation.
5. Minimize the use technology
Say ‘No’ to iPad and baby apps that are too stimulating. Doctors do not recommend screen time for babies. Stick to basics, like a pot and spoon. Following the above-mentioned tips could really help in avoiding overstimulation, and this would have some appealing benefits too.
5 Benefits Of Avoiding Overstimulation
While it may seem like you have to put a lot of effort and spend a lot of time guessing and avoiding overstimulation in your baby, it can be helpful in many ways.
While the basic temperament remains consistent in babies, the reactions may change over time. As babies grow, they develop the skill to deal with things and become social. An activity that is overwhelming for a nine-month baby may become one that they enjoy after a few months.
