Babies can become overtired quite quickly so it is important to watch them for the telltale signs of tiredness before they become irritable and overstimulated. It is not easy to settle a cranky baby.

Some of the baby and toddler tired signs are quite obvious – such as yawning or thumbsucking – but others are not as easy to recognise. It is important to watch your own child to see which of the following tired signs they exhibit.

Recognising your baby’s tired signs can also prevent you from trying to settle a baby who isn’t ready for a nap. No one wants to go to sleep when they’re not tired!