Ashwin Lewis
Newborns have very different sleep patterns from adults. They sleep during the day and night, as the parts of their brains that control day-night sleep cycles haven't matured yet. Newborns also spend half their sleep time in REM sleep, a light phase of sleep when dreams occur, which makes them more likely to wake up. This is why newborns are such restless sleepers, and why they fidget, cry, whimper, and move their heads, arms, and legs around. However, after a few months, babies begin to sleep for longer periods without waking, and by the time they are six months old, they start to sleep through the night.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sleep duration | Newborns sleep for about eight hours at night and eight to nine hours during the day. |
| Sleep patterns | Newborns go through different sleep patterns in the first few months and may not sleep through the night until they are a few months old. |
| Sleep cycles | Newborns have two types of sleep cycles: active sleep and quiet sleep. Each cycle includes both types of sleep and lasts about 40 minutes. |
| REM sleep | Newborns spend about half their sleep time in REM sleep, which is a light sleep phase characterised by rapid eye movement, dreaming, and movement. |
| Sleep environment | It is recommended to put newborns to sleep on their back in a safe and comfortable environment without loose bedding, pillows, or toys to reduce the risk of SIDS. |
| Sleep routine | Establishing a consistent bedtime routine and sleep schedule is important for newborns to develop healthy sleep habits. |
| Sleep regression | Sleep regression is common at four months, and newborns may experience periods of disturbed sleep due to various factors such as wet nappies, hunger, or temperature. |
| Self-soothing | Newborns can self-soothe by caressing their head or back and talking to them in a calm tone. |
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Newborn sleep patterns
Newborns typically sleep for eight hours at night and eight to nine hours during the day. However, this is just an average, and some newborns sleep much more or less. In the first few months, newborns usually wake up several times a night to be fed. Their tiny tummies mean they need to eat at least every two to four hours, including overnight.
Newborns spend half their sleep time in REM (rapid-eye movement) sleep, a light phase of sleep when dreams occur. This means they are more likely to move around, make noises, and wake up. They also breathe primarily through their noses, so congestion can make breathing more difficult and result in rattling or whistling noises. Newborns are also noisy sleepers because their digestive and respiratory systems are not yet fully developed, so swallowing and breathing take extra effort.
Newborns' sleep patterns change frequently, but there are some commonalities. Newborns have two different kinds of sleep: active sleep and quiet sleep. During active sleep, newborns move around a lot and can be woken easily. During quiet sleep, newborns are still, and their breathing is deep and regular. Each sleep cycle, consisting of both active and quiet sleep, takes about 40 minutes.
After a few months, babies begin to sleep for longer periods without waking. However, episodes of disturbed sleep may still occur due to factors such as wet nappies, hunger, or discomfort. Establishing a bedtime routine early on can help babies learn that certain cues mean it is time for bed. It is also important to put your baby to sleep on their back to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
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Fidgeting causes
Newborns spend half of their sleep time in REM (rapid-eye movement) sleep, a light sleep phase when dreams occur. They are also noisy sleepers due to the mucus in their noses, which can cause strange sounds and irregular breathing. Newborns also breathe primarily through their noses, so even slight congestion can be noticeable.
Newborns have different sleep patterns from adults, but over time, their sleep patterns evolve and become more like those of adults. Newborns typically sleep for eight hours at night and eight to nine hours during the day. However, this varies, and some newborns sleep much more or less than this average. During the first few months, newborns usually wake up several times a night to feed and may experience sleep regression.
Newborns may fidget in their sleep due to various factors, such as discomfort from a wet nappy, hunger, or feeling too hot. Establishing a consistent sleep routine can help newborns settle into a sleep-wake cycle similar to that of adults. A bedtime routine can also help newborns recognise that certain cues, such as a bath, lullaby, or pacifier, mean it is time for bed.
Additionally, swaddling a newborn can help control their startle reflex and promote better sleep. It is important to always put a newborn to sleep on their back to ensure safe sleep and reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
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Sleep deprivation
To promote healthy sleep habits in newborns and prevent sleep deprivation, it is important to establish a consistent bedtime routine. This includes adhering to a fixed bedtime, creating a calm and soothing environment, and incorporating relaxing activities such as baths, lullabies, and soft lighting. Additionally, swaddling your baby can help control their startle reflex and improve their sleep quality. It is recommended to always place your baby on their back when sleeping to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
As newborns have tiny tummies, they need to be fed frequently, including overnight. Learning to differentiate between your baby's "feed me!" cries and other whimpers can help you respond appropriately and encourage them to fall back asleep. Newborns may also produce various noises during sleep due to mucus in their noses, partially blocked airways, or digestive processes, which is usually not a cause for concern.
Around the age of three months, babies typically start sleeping for longer stretches at night, ranging from four to five hours. However, it is common for them to still wake up at least once during the night. By six months, infants may begin sleeping through the night, but night awakenings can continue to occur until school age. Establishing a sleep-wake cycle similar to that of adults can be achieved through a well-defined schedule and a consistent bedtime routine.
If you are experiencing sleep deprivation due to your newborn's sleep patterns, it is crucial to prioritise your own rest as well. Taking turns with your partner to care for the baby or napping while the baby sleeps can help ensure you are getting adequate sleep. Remember that babies' sleep problems are common, and it is essential to work together with your partner to find solutions and maintain your own well-being.
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Sleep aids
Newborns typically sleep for eight hours at night and eight to nine hours during the day. However, this is just an average, and some newborns sleep much more or less. Newborns' sleeping habits change frequently, and they are often restless and fidgety sleepers due to spending half their time in REM sleep, a light sleep phase when dreams occur. As they age, they spend less time in REM sleep and more time in deep sleep.
Sleep problems are prevalent in newborns and can be exhausting for parents. Here are some sleep aids and strategies to help your newborn sleep better:
Swaddling
Swaddling your baby can help control their startle reflex and promote better sleep. It makes them feel secure and comfortable, reducing fidgeting and sudden movements.
Safe Sleep Position
Always put your baby to sleep on their back to ensure safe sleep and reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). It is not recommended for babies to sleep on their stomach or chest, as it can increase the risk of SIDS.
Bedtime Routine
Establishing a consistent bedtime routine is essential. Teach your baby that specific cues, such as a bath, lullaby, pacifier, cuddle, or story time, mean it's time for bed. This helps them develop a healthy sleep association and makes it easier for them to fall asleep.
Self-Soothing
Around 4 to 6 months of age, infants typically start self-soothing. You can encourage this by providing a safe sleep environment, minimal parental contact during sleep, and access to a comfort object like a soft toy or a baby sleeping bag.
There are various sleep aids available for newborns, including sleep drops or sprays with natural ingredients like chamomile, lemon balm, and passionflower. These aids promote relaxation and support longer REM cycles. Always opt for melatonin-free and non-habit-forming formulas.
Fresh Air and Movement
Taking your baby outdoors in a stroller can work wonders. The combination of fresh air and the steady rocking motion of the stroller can help your baby fall asleep and enjoy undisturbed sleep.
Digestive Considerations
Avoid putting your baby to bed right after they have eaten. Allow some time for digestion before sleep. Additionally, ensure your baby is satisfied and content before bedtime, as a well-fed baby tends to fall asleep more easily.
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Sleep cycles
Newborns typically sleep for eight hours at night and eight to nine hours during the day. However, this is just an average, and some newborns sleep much more or less. In the first few months, newborns usually wake up several times a night to be fed. Their sleep patterns change frequently during this time, and they may not sleep through the night until they are a few months old.
Newborns have two different kinds of sleep: active sleep and quiet sleep. During active sleep, newborns move around a lot and make noises. They can be woken easily during this time. Active sleep is also known as REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, a light sleep phase during which babies move, dream, and sometimes wake up crying. During quiet sleep, newborns are still, and their breathing is deep and regular. They are less likely to wake up during this sleep phase. Each newborn sleep cycle includes both active and quiet sleep and lasts about 40 minutes.
As newborns' brains are not yet fully developed, they do not know that people sleep at night. The parts of their brains that control day-night sleep cycles have not yet matured. Therefore, it is important to teach newborns the difference between night and day. Parents can do this by keeping the house bright and noisy during the day and quiet and dim at night.
Newborns' sleep can be disturbed by various factors, such as a wet nappy, hunger, or overheating. Establishing a bedtime routine can help newborns sleep better. This includes repeating the same activities each night before bedtime, such as bathing, singing lullabies, and keeping the lighting soft. It is also important to put newborns to sleep on their backs to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, newborns spend half their sleep time in REM sleep, which is a light phase of sleep where they move around a lot and can be woken easily. They also have very tiny tummies, so they need to be fed at least every two to four hours, including overnight.
You can swaddle your baby to control their startle reflex and help them sleep better. You can also establish a bedtime routine to help your baby learn that certain cues mean it's time for bed.
Newborns wake up at night for various reasons, such as needing to be fed, having a wet nappy, or being too hot. They also spend half their sleep time in REM sleep, which means they can be woken easily.
