Those first few months can be a total whirlwind.
Newborns haven’t quite figured out this whole day-and-night thing yet. Their tummies are miniature, so they need frequent refills of breast milk or formula, leading to round-the-clock waking for feedings. Think of it as a 24/7 culinary experience for them!
How much sleep is normal?
Newborns typically clock in between 14-17 hours of sleep per day, sometimes even stretching it to 18-19 hours. This sleep happens in short bursts, with wake-ups every couple of hours for those essential meals. Breastfed babies tend to eat more frequently (every 2-3 hours) compared to bottle-fed babies (every 3-4 hours).
Waking a sleeping baby?
It might seem counterintuitive, but you should wake your newborn for feedings every 3-4 hours, especially until they’re showing healthy weight gain (usually within the first couple of weeks). Once they’re thriving, you can let them sleep a bit longer at night.
Sleeping through the night – a myth? (sort of!)
Every baby is unique, and their sleep patterns develop at their own pace. While some little ones might start sleeping for longer stretches (5-6 hours – the newborn definition of “through the night”) by 2-3 months, others take a bit longer. Hang in there, parents!
Safe sleep practices – rooming in vs. bed-sharing
Many parents opt for room-sharing during the first few weeks, placing the baby’s crib or bassinet in their own bedroom. This makes nighttime feedings and comforting much easier and allows for close monitoring. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) highly recommends room-sharing, but not bed-sharing.
While snuggling with your little one is tempting, bed-sharing significantly increases the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related dangers. A separate sleep surface for your baby is the safest option.
The ABCs of safe sleep:
- Alone on their back: Always place your baby on their back for sleep, never on their stomach or side. This significantly reduces the risk of SIDS;
- Bare is best: Keep the crib or bassinet completely bare. No plush toys, pillows, blankets, loose sheets, quilts, comforters, sheepskins, or bumper pads. A snug-fitting sheet on a firm, flat mattress is all they need;
- Cool and comfortable: Dress your baby lightly to avoid overheating. No need to cover their head. If they’re sweating or feel hot to the touch, they’re too warm.
Additional safety measures:
- Smoke-free zone: Keep your baby away from secondhand smoke, which increases the risk of SIDS;
- Pacifier power (optional): Offering a pacifier at bedtime can be helpful, but don’t force it. If it falls out, no need to replace it. If breastfeeding, wait until it’s well-established;
- Hazard hunt: Eliminate anything with cords, ties, or ribbons that could pose a strangulation risk. Remove objects with sharp edges or corners. Secure anything within your baby’s reach, like mobiles, wall hangings, and blind cords;
- Sleep-approved surfaces only: Only use products specifically designed for infant sleep. Car seats, feeding pillows, and infant loungers are not for sleeping;
- Skip the gadgets: Avoid products claiming to reduce SIDS risk, like sleep positioners or breathing monitors. They haven’t been proven effective. Also, avoid weighted blankets, sleepers, or swaddles;
- Safety standards: Ensure all sleep surfaces and products meet CPSC safety standards.
Helping your newborn sleep:
- Patience is key: Newborns have their own unique schedules. A regular routine will develop over time;
- Nighttime cues: Keep nighttime feedings and diaper changes calm and quiet. Dim the lights and avoid playing or talking to reinforce the association between night and sleep. Ideally, let your baby fall asleep in the crib;
- Daytime sleep is important: Don’t try to keep your baby awake during the day hoping for better nighttime sleep. Overtired babies often sleep worse at night;
- Comfort and soothing: It’s perfectly fine to rock, cuddle, and sing to a fussy newborn. Swaddling can also be soothing, but discontinue it once your baby shows signs of rolling over. Cuddles and comfort are essential in these early months!
I hope this helps! Remember, those first few months are an adjustment period for everyone.
Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional. The content provided on this blog is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health, treatment, or the health of your child. Reliance on any information provided on this blog is solely at your own risk.
