The Power of Movement: How Increased Physical Activity at 11 Months Can Lead to Better Sleep

Not medical advice. For emergencies, call your local emergency number.

As babies reach the 11-month mark, many parents observe a significant increase in their little one’s mobility and exploration. This newfound freedom to crawl, stand, and move around can be both exhilarating and exhausting for parents. One parent on Reddit shared their experience of their 11-month-old finally sleeping through the night after becoming much more active during the day.

This post highlights a common parenting observation: ‘tire the baby out before bed.’ When babies engage in more physical activity, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime, it can contribute to deeper and more consolidated sleep. The crawling, practicing standing, and squatting mentioned by the parent are all key developmental milestones that naturally increase a baby’s energy expenditure.

While this increased activity leads to a well-rested baby, parents often feel the exhaustion of keeping up. The Reddit user’s comment, ‘But the baby is not the only tired one, I’m exhausted too after chasing him around all day,’ resonates with many in the parenting community.

For parents struggling with sleep disruptions around this age, consider incorporating more opportunities for active play and exploration during the day. While it might feel like more work in the short term, the long-term benefit of uninterrupted sleep can be incredibly rewarding. Remember to also prioritize your own rest and self-care, as raising an active crawler is a marathon, not a sprint!

Related Guides