by Baby Sleep Guide: Everything You Need to Know (And Even More)
Are you having a hard time understanding your baby’s sleep patterns? You’re not the only one! Every baby is different, and the way they sleep can seem like a complete mystery. But don’t worry I’ve got you covered with a guide that’s easy to understand, practical, and, I would even say, fun.
Baby Sleep Basics (Spoiler Alert: One Thing Doesn’t Work for Everyone)
First things first, babies aren’t robots. Some sleep like little angels for many hours, while others act like nap time is a wrestling match. It’s totally normal for your baby’s sleep schedule to feel all mixed up. But here’s the most important rule: try to sleep when your baby sleeps. Seriously, forget about cleaning up or watching “social media” all the time. Your sleep is important too. Now, when it comes to feeding and sleeping, newborn babies will often fall asleep while they’re eating (it’s cute and it will happen). Just keep feeding them until they are finished or completely asleep. Also, don’t walk around the house very quietly while they are sleeping! Getting them used to a little bit of noise during the day (like the vacuum cleaner!) means they will be less likely to wake up at every little sound.
Getting Good at Night vs. Day (Yes, Babies Get Jet Lag Too)
Babies aren’t born knowing what time it is. Teaching them the difference between night and day can help set their body’s natural clock. Here’s how to start:
- During the day, keep the curtains open and don’t worry too much about noise.
- At night, keep things calm with dim lights and a quiet voice. Feed them, cuddle them, and put them back to bed without making it a playtime.
- Avoid changing diapers or playing with them in the very early morning unless you really need to!
Being Patience is very important here. Your baby will slowly learn that nighttime is for sleeping.
Safe Sleeping Place = Feeling Calm
For at least the first six months, keep your baby in the same room as you when they are sleeping. This really lowers the chance of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and lets you watch them. Fun fact (or maybe not so fun, depending on how strong your arms are): In the first few weeks, your baby might only fall asleep while someone is holding them or in a baby carrier (sling). Just make sure you are using baby slings safely! And remember, this time when they want to be held a lot won’t last forever.
Making a Bedtime Plan for Your Little Sleeper
Do you want to make bedtime a little easier? A calm routine helps tell your baby that it’s time to relax and sleep. Try this simple bedtime routine:
- Bath time (a common way to help them calm down)
- Fresh cloths and a clean diaper
- A bedtime story (even babies can enjoy the soft sound of your voice)
- Make the lights dim and give them a goodnight kiss or hug
- A soft sound from a mobile
- Brushing their teeth if they have their little white teeth (yes, even babies need to have their teeth cared for!)
Doing the same things regularly is important, and as your baby gets older, you can keep changing the routine to fit their age and how much energy they have.
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