Hi hon! I think you can increase A time a bit - 45 min naps are usually UT. Here are some sample routines:
http://babywhispererforums.com/index.php?topic=164029.0http://babywhispererforums.com/index.php?topic=64158.msg476652#msg476652BONUS - In a little while, your LO will be gearing up to drop the CN, which was a really great time in my house since DS always seemed to resist the catnap!
http://babywhispererforums.com/index.php?topic=64837.0I left the room and turned her aquarium on so she has some low key A time in her crib
Does the aquarium stay on very long? It could be distracting?
Sorry, I've never dealt with this one so I'm not sure.
This week my DD turned 6 months and has cut her first tooth and learned to roll from front to back (I don't understand how this last milestone could effect her naps, though). 2 weeks ago she discovered her toes and how to hold her legs and rock back and forth on her back.
WOW! All of this stuff is very cool and new for your DD. She is going to want to practice all of her new tricks as much as she can (even in her crib!), they have opened up a whole new world for her. Make sure she practices as much as possible during A time so that the novelty wears off a bit before nap time
If it's teeth, medicate as needed. AP as needed, too. Give yourself permission to do this - you're not causing any problems that can't be fixed and you're giving your DD the comfort and security she needs (which is WAY more important than anything else).
Do I just shorten A times for every short nap?
Generally, yes. However, all LO's are different. This is where watching cues is SO important. I know, very vague - but you know her better than anyone. My DS only needed his A time cut by 10 or 15 min after a short nap at that age. Other LO's need more time shaved off.
Is there a general timeline how long this will last?
I wish I could say yes......
The only thing I can tell you for sure is that this will pass soon, all too soon to be honest, they are only little for a very short while so make sure you enjoy every moment and try not to stress. One of my favourite moments on this site was when I had written a post about night wakings and horrible naps, I was ready to throw in the towel and just live in misery, but one special mom on here to me that when the going gets tough, do your best and when it gets REALLY tough, just hug 'em and love 'em. She told me to cherish the NW's because it was alone time that the two of us would probably never have again. Think of the short naps as 'extra' time to spend together. Sorry, I'm getting sentimental! But you get my point.
Anyway, you're doing a really great job. I see you've been helping other mums on the boards too and that's the best way for us all to get through this!
As a starting point, I'd say increase the first A time for a few days and see what happens. She might surprise you!
xoxo
Nikki