Newborns often have irregular sleep patterns, sometimes preferring to sleep during the day and stay awake at night. Remember that in the womb, it’s constantly dark, so they haven’t yet developed a sense of day and night. If you need to adjust your baby’s sleep habits, here are some effective strategies.
During the day, avoid excessive quiet. When your baby naps, leave the door slightly open and continue with your normal activities. Keeping the TV or music on at a low volume can be beneficial. This helps them learn to sleep through everyday noises, which is practical for naps at home. It also subtly teaches them that daytime is not for prolonged sleep.
If your baby sleeps for more than three hours at a stretch during the day, gently wake them. Naps are important, but extended sleep periods should be reserved for nighttime. Try holding them upright and tickling their feet to rouse them. If that doesn’t work, briefly remove a layer of clothing to cool them slightly. Once they’re awake, engage them with singing or talking to keep them alert. This is also a good time for tummy time, provided it’s not close to feeding time.
Addressing nighttime wakefulness requires patience, but babies typically adjust within a few weeks. Night feedings will likely still be necessary. Here are some tips to encourage longer, more restful sleep at night:
For the first few weeks, use a bassinet or cradle. A crib can feel overwhelming to a newborn, so the snugness of a smaller space can promote better sleep.
Introduce soothing sounds. Soft, classical music or the gentle hum of a fan can act as white noise, masking other disturbances and creating a calming environment.
Maintain a comfortable room temperature. Like adults, babies sleep better when they’re neither too hot nor too cold.
Establishing a consistent routine is key. A predictable sleep schedule, with naps and bedtime at roughly the same times each day, helps regulate their internal clock. Create calming bedtime rituals, such as a warm bath or a story, to signal that it’s time to sleep.
Sleep challenges are common for new parents, often exacerbated by your own exhaustion. Avoid the temptation to skip daytime naps in an attempt to force nighttime sleep. Babies need plenty of sleep, and naps are essential. Simply ensure that daytime naps aren’t excessively long. With time and patience, everyone in the family will be sleeping soundly through the night.