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Hi Rita,
You’re absolutely right—this sounds developmental rather than teething or belly issues.
The big clue is that she’s suddenly rolling from back to belly. This is a huge milestone, and with it often comes a temporary disruption in sleep. It’s very common for babies to have a few rough nights while their brain is busy processing a new skill.
Helping Her Through This Phase Faster
To help her adjust and move through this phase as quickly as possible, here are a few things you can do:
1. Lots of Rolling Practice During the Day
Encourage her to practice rolling both ways (back-to-belly and belly-to-back) as much as possible while she’s awake. The more confident she becomes, the less likely she’ll wake up feeling stuck at night.
2. Let Her Sleep on Her Belly (If She Rolls There on Her Own)
Many babies prefer sleeping on their belly once they learn to roll, and there’s no way to keep them on their back once they can roll independently. The recommendation is to always place her on her back to sleep, but if she rolls onto her belly, it’s okay to let her find a comfortable position. You can help her settle in this position by gently patting or shushing. Just ensure her crib is clear of loose items (toys, blankets, etc.).
3. Stick to Your Usual Sleep Cues
Even though bedtime is trickier right now, try to keep her routine consistent—same wind-down, same cues. This prevents her from forming new habits that could linger beyond this phase.
4. Switch to a Sleeping Bag with Arms Free (If You Haven’t Already)
If she’s still in a swaddle or sleep sack with her arms in, now is the time to transition to one that allows full arm movement. This gives her the freedom to adjust her position safely.
How Long Will This Last?
This phase typically resolves within 1-2 weeks as she masters rolling and adjusts to her new sleep position. Hang in there—you’re doing great! 💛
Emma