From the moment she was born, my daughter has always had her own ideas about sleep – or rather, not sleeping. It turns out this is nothing new. Even when she was in the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU), she was already showing her determination to stay awake and be part of everything happening around her.
“The Baby Who Wouldn’t Sleep”
We recently went back to visit the SCBU where she spent her early days, and one of the nurses, with a big smile, said something that summed her up perfectly:
“You were the only one at that time who wouldn’t go off to sleep. All you wanted was a cuddle!”
While the other babies would drift off peacefully in their incubators, my little one had other plans. She seemed to sense that there were people around, things happening, and most importantly, arms ready to hold her. And she made sure she got exactly what she wanted – connection, cuddles, and company.
Even then, it felt like she was determined not to miss a single moment.
FOMO Baby: It’s Still Her Signature Trait
Fast forward to now, and not much has changed. My daughter still has a serious case of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). Whether it’s a quiet conversation, the sound of movement, or even just us being nearby, she’s got those wide-open eyes as if to say:
“What’s going on? Don’t leave me out of this!”
Her refusal to sleep often comes with a very clear message – she knows we’re still up to something, and she’s absolutely not missing out.
Why It’s Sweet (and Exhausting)
As exhausting as it can be to have a baby who resists sleep, there’s something heartwarming about her curiosity and need for connection. Looking back at those early days in the SCBU, I realise that this has always been part of who she is. It’s a reminder of how far she’s come and how strong her little personality already was, even as a newborn.
What We’ve Tried (So Far)
Over the months, we’ve tried the classic sleep strategies:
• Sticking to a consistent bedtime routine.
• Calming activities like soft music and cuddles.
• Darkened rooms and white noise to block out distractions.
Some nights, we win a small victory. Other nights, her determination (and her FOMO) gets the better of us. It’s like she’s saying: “Nice try, Mum, but I know you’re still here, and I’m not missing out!”
A Special Bond
Hearing that story from the SCBU nurse made me smile because it’s such a part of who she is. Even in those early days when so much was uncertain, all she wanted was connection and cuddles.
And honestly, it’s a lesson for me, too. In a way, her need to be present reminds me to slow down and appreciate the little moments – even when I’m desperate for sleep.
Are You Raising a FOMO Baby?
I’d love to know if any other parents have had a similar experience. Do you have a little one who fights sleep just to stay involved? Did it start early for you, too?
Share your stories and tips below – because I know I can’t be the only one with a baby who believes life is far too exciting to miss even a moment.
Sleep may be a battle, but these moments are precious – even when my little FOMO warrior keeps me up all night.
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