This is a collaborative post.
Some babies will sleep a lot more than others. Some will sleep for long periods, and others will sleep in short bursts. Some babies will sleep through the night quite quickly, whereas others won’t do this for some. It’s unlikely that your baby’s sleep pattern will be the same as other babies you know.
How Can I Get My Baby Used To Night And Day?
Teach your baby the night is different from daytime as soon as you can. During the day, open the curtains, play games, and don’t worry about stopping normal nouse around the house, even if the baby is asleep.
At night, you can:
- Keep lights at a low level
- Not talk much and keep your voice quiet
- Put your baby down as soon as you have fed or changed them
- Not change the baby unless they need it
- Not play with your baby
You baby should soon learn that night is for sleep.
Where Should My Baby Sleep?
For the first six months, keep your baby in the same room as you when they’re asleep, both day and night, whether in a cot or Pod Moses Baskets. In the early weeks, your baby might only sleep in your arms or with you by the cot.
Start by getting your baby used to going to sleep without you there to comfort them by putting them before they fall asleep, or after that have just finished a feed. You might find this easier to do once your baby begins to stay alert more frequently or for longer periods of time.
What To Expect From Newborn Sleep
Newborn babies will likely sleep on and off throughout the day and night. Try to have a pattern, but remember that you can change the routine to suit your needs whenever you need to.
For example, try waking your baby for a feed just before you go to bed, to try and allow you to get a long sleep before your baby wakes up again and needs another feed.
Establishing A Bedtime Routine
You might feel that the time is right to try a bedtime routine when your baby is about three months old. A simple bedtime routine can help everyone, and help to prevent sleeping problems later on. This routine can also be a good way to spend time with your baby.
Try a routine that consists of:
- A bath
- Brushing their teeth (if they have any)
- Changing them into nightclothes and a fresh nappy
- Putting them to bed
- Reading a story
- Dimming the lights in the room
- Giving a goodnight cuddle or kiss
- Singing a lullaby or using a mobile that you turn on when you put the baby to bed
As your baby gets older, it can be useful to stick to a similar routine. Too much stimulation or excitement before bedtime can cause babies and children to wake up again. Spend some time on some calmer activities, like reading, to help them feel ready for sleep.
