Welcoming a new baby into your family is one of life’s most heartwarming experiences, but it can also introduce a symphony of questions about their wellbeing, especially when it comes to sleep. As a new or expecting parent, you may find yourself pondering just how much sleep your little one needs or how to create the right environment for their peaceful slumber. Rest assured, you’re not alone in this nocturnal quest. We are here to guide you with your newborn sleep schedule.

Newborn Sleep Cycles

Newborns often sleep between 14-17 hours over a 24-hour period, but this does not come in one uninterrupted stretch. Newly minted parents might notice that their precious bundles alternate between waking and sleeping every 1 to 3 hours. Remember, your newborn’s tiny tummy can’t hold much, which means frequent feedings and, consequently, disrupted sleep patterns for you and your baby.

Helping Your Baby Drift Off to Dreamland

Few moments are as serene as watching a baby sleep. Helping them get there, though, requires patience and a few tried-and-true strategies. White noise can be a calming presence for infants. Recreating the continuous sounds they heard in the womb, such as a fan or white noise machine, might help your baby transition from the snug environment they’re accustomed to, to the big world outside.

Safe Newborn Sleep Practices for Your Peace of Mind

At the forefront of every parent’s mind is ensuring their newborn’s safety during sleep. Here are key guidelines to lay the groundwork for a secure sleep setting:

• Position is Key: Always put your baby on their back to sleep. This simple practice has been associated with a significant decrease in sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
• A Clear Space: Keep the cot free of toys, pillows, and heavy blankets. A clutter-free space is a safe space for your infant.
• Ideal Room Temperature: Ensure the room’s temperature is not too hot or too cold. A comfortable environment for a baby typically ranges between 68-72°F (20-22°C).
• Security Measures: Invest in a fireproof cot and regularly check its structure to ensure it’s always a safe haven.

For safer sleeping tips go to The Lullaby Trust website.

Close But Not Too Close

While it’s crucial that your infant has their own safe spot to snooze, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies sleep in the same room as their T xx wparents – but on a separate surface, such as a cot or bassinet – for at least the first 6 months. This close proximity can make it easier to attend to feedings and care, and offer the silent reassurance that you’re near.

Being a new parent is an adventure filled with awe, uncertainties, and endless learning. In these first weeks and months, know that every question you have is valid, and each concern you hold is shared by many. Understanding your newborn’s sleep habits and crafting a nurturing environment for rest can sometimes feel like solving a gentle puzzle. But as you fit each piece, you’ll gain confidence, and with this knowledge, may the wee hours of the night become a time of bonding and sweet dreams, as well as rest for you and your growing family.

Discover more on newborns on our Baby page.