Experiential Learning Activity

Parents with newborn babies usually get less hours of sleep because of the demands of the baby. While I have always known that this is a reality to many new parents, I have never known what it actually feels like to be in their shoes. This experiential learning activity has provided me an opportunity to have first-hand experience of what it entails to be a parent of a newborn baby with regards to night time waking up. As one who likes to have interrupted sleep, having to wake every three hours at night was a really difficult experience for me. When the alarm went off the first time i.e. at 1:00am, it was relatively easy for me to wake up. However, the experience became more difficult way into the night as I struggled to wake up. For instance, it was harder to wake up at 4:00am than it was at 1:00am. When the alarm went off at 4:00am, I contemplated snoozing rather than waking up.

Night-time wake up had an impact on my mood and physical strength the next day. I felt tired the next day, especially during morning hours and struggled to complete some tasks. I also felt moody throughout the day as I was sleepy and tired. I avoided talking to people because of my moodiness and felt like I should be left alone. If I had to do this night after night for months, I would really struggle. Even though my body may likely adjust to the new reality, it would be very challenging to adapt. I may end up being less productive and emotionally withdrawn because of the physical and emotional effects of night-time waking up.

This experience has shaped my understanding of the experiences of new parents or those with newborns. While I only woke up for shorter periods during the night, I understand how new parents struggle with the demands of their newborns at night as they have to stay awake for longer periods for months. In light of my experience, I would want to share nighttime duties with my partner who is also willing to share this duty.