Evie Summers
Newborns sleep a lot, but they wake up every few hours to feed. In the first few weeks, they may only be awake for a total of 6-10 hours in a 24-hour period. Generally, newborns sleep about 8 to 9 hours in the daytime and about 8 hours at night. However, they may not sleep for more than 1 to 2 hours at a time. Most babies don't start sleeping through the night (6 to 8 hours) without waking until they are about 3 months old, or until they weigh 12 to 13 pounds.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of hours of sleep | Newborns sleep about 8 to 9 hours in the daytime and about 8 hours at night. However, they may not sleep more than 1 to 2 hours at a time. |
| Sleep patterns | Newborns follow their own schedule. It may take a few weeks for their brain to know the difference between night and day. |
| Sleep cycles | Babies spend much less time in REM sleep than adults. They also have shorter sleep cycles. |
| Wake windows | Newborns may only be awake for a total of 6-10 hours in a 24-hour period. Wake windows may only be 35-60 minutes in the first 4 weeks and 60-90 minutes for babies 4-12 weeks old. |
| Feeding | Feedings should be offered every 2-3 hours during the day according to the baby's hunger cues. |
| Bed-sharing | The AAP recommends room-sharing without bed-sharing for at least the first 6 months or ideally, until the baby's first birthday. |
| Sleep surface | The sleep surface should be firm, flat, and free of soft toys, blankets, pillows, and bumpers. |
| Sleep position | Babies should always be placed on their backs to sleep, not on their stomach or side. |
| Pacifiers | Offering a pacifier at sleep time may lower the risk of SIDS. However, breastfeeding mothers should wait until the baby is 1 month old or is used to breastfeeding before offering a pacifier. |
| Bedtime routine | Establishing a bedtime routine is recommended. This can include bathing, reading, and singing to soothe the baby. |
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What You'll Learn
Newborns sleep 8-9 hours during the day and 8 hours at night
Newborns typically sleep about 8 to 9 hours during the day and 8 hours at night. However, they may only sleep for 1 to 2 hours at a time. Newborns have small stomachs and need to wake up every few hours to eat, typically about every 3 hours. During the first few months, it is recommended to offer feedings every 2 to 3 hours during the day according to your baby's hunger cues.
It can be challenging for new parents to determine how long and how often a newborn should sleep. There is no set schedule at first, and many newborns confuse day and night, thinking they should be awake at night and sleep during the day. To help your newborn distinguish between day and night, keep things quiet and calm during middle-of-the-night feedings and diaper changes. Keep the lights low, and avoid playing with or talking to your baby. This will signal that nighttime is for sleeping.
It is important to establish a bedtime routine for your newborn. This can include bathing, reading, and singing, which can soothe your baby and signal the end of the day. You can also play soft music while your baby is getting sleepy and offer a transitional object, such as a small blanket or soft toy, once your baby is old enough to roll and sit. However, be careful not to let your baby fall asleep in your arms, as this may become a pattern, and your baby may expect to be held every time they fall asleep.
To ensure your newborn's safety during sleep, always place them on their back on a separate, flat, and firm sleep surface without any loose items in the sleep area. Keep your baby away from smokers, as secondhand smoke increases the risk of SIDS. You can offer a pacifier to your baby at sleep time, but don't force it, and if you are breastfeeding, wait until it is firmly established. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends room-sharing without bed-sharing for at least the first 6 months to reduce the risk of SIDS.
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Babies sleep in cycles of non-REM and REM sleep
The number of hours a newborn sleeps overnight depends on several factors, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. On average, newborns sleep about 8-9 hours during the day and 8 hours at night. However, it is not uncommon for newborns to confuse their days and nights, thinking they should be awake at night and asleep during the day. This can make it challenging for new parents to establish a consistent sleep schedule.
Now, let's delve into the topic of newborn sleep cycles, specifically the cycles of non-REM and REM sleep:
Understanding Non-REM and REM Sleep in Newborns
Non-REM and REM sleep are the two primary stages of sleep in newborns. Non-REM sleep, often referred to as "quiet sleep," is characterised by reduced heart rate, slower breathing, and minimal body movement. On the other hand, REM sleep, also known as "active sleep," is associated with rapid eye movements, twitching of limbs or facial muscles, and irregular breathing. During the first few months, newborns spend nearly equal amounts of time in REM and non-REM sleep, which is essential for their growth and development.
The Four Stages of Non-REM Sleep
Non-REM sleep in newborns consists of four distinct stages:
- Drowsiness: In the first stage, the baby is drowsy, with drooping eyes that may open and close.
- Light Sleep: During the second stage, the baby is in a light sleep state, and they may move, startle, or jump in response to sounds.
- Deep Sleep: The third stage is marked by deep sleep, where the baby is quiet and does not move.
- Very Deep Sleep: In the fourth stage, the baby is in an even deeper sleep state, remaining quiet and motionless.
The Role of REM Sleep in Brain Development
While non-REM sleep is crucial for physical growth and immune system development, REM sleep plays a vital role in brain development. During the first few months of life, newborns spend a significant portion of their sleep in REM sleep, which supports the maturation of the central nervous system and facilitates learning and memory consolidation. This rapid cycling between REM and non-REM sleep is necessary to meet the developmental needs of infants.
Transitioning Between Sleep Stages
It is important to note that the transition between non-REM and REM sleep stages in newborns is not as smooth as in adults. Newborns may experience more frequent awakenings due to the differences in their sleep architecture. These awakenings are a normal part of their sleep cycle and indicate the developmental stage of their sleep patterns. As newborns grow, their sleep cycles will lengthen and become more similar to those of adults, with a reduced proportion of REM sleep.
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Safe sleep guidelines to prevent SIDS
Newborns typically sleep about 8 to 9 hours during the day and 8 hours at night. However, this varies from newborn to newborn, with some sleeping for longer stretches and others taking shorter naps. During the first few weeks, newborns may only be awake for a total of 6-10 hours in a 24-hour period, with wake windows of 35-60 minutes.
Create a safe sleep environment:
- Always place your baby on their back to sleep on a separate, flat, and firm surface without any bumpers or loose bedding. This can be a crib, bassinet, portable crib, or play yard that meets federal safety standards and is approved by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
- Keep the sleep area clear of any soft items that could cause suffocation, such as loose blankets, pillows, stuffed toys, and bumpers.
- Dress your baby appropriately for the room temperature to avoid overheating, and avoid covering their head while they sleep.
- Keep your baby away from smokers and second-hand smoke, as this increases the risk of SIDS.
Establish a bedtime routine:
- Recognize your baby's sleep cues and try to establish a consistent bedtime routine.
- Feed your baby before they reach the crying phase, as they may refuse the breast or bottle once they are upset.
- Offer your baby a pacifier at sleep times, but don't force it. Some studies have shown a lower rate of SIDS among babies who use pacifiers.
- Avoid bed-sharing with your baby, as this can increase the risk of SIDS and suffocation. Instead, room-sharing is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Keep your baby's sleep area in the same room as you, ideally until they are at least 6 months old.
Breastfeed if possible:
Breastfeeding provides numerous benefits and can help reduce the risk of SIDS. If you are breastfeeding, wait until it is well-established before offering a pacifier.
Be cautious of sleep during the day:
- While it's important for newborns to get enough sleep during the day, avoid letting them nap too much, as this may interfere with their nighttime sleep.
- Keep things quiet and calm during middle-of-the-night feedings and diaper changes, and try to maintain low lighting. This will help your baby understand that nighttime is for sleeping.
Remember, every baby is unique, and you will gradually learn your newborn's sleep patterns and cues. Always prioritize your baby's safety and well-being, and don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance and support.
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Tips to help your baby sleep
Newborns sleep around the clock, waking every few hours to feed. They get around 14–19 hours of sleep over a 24-hour period. However, there is no set schedule, and newborns often confuse night and day. They may only be awake for a total of 6-10 hours in a 24-hour period.
- Recognise signs of sleep readiness and teach your baby to fall asleep on their own.
- Establish a bedtime routine.
- Avoid letting your baby fall asleep while eating or in your arms, as they may begin to expect this every time.
- Offer your baby a pacifier at sleep times, but don't force it. Some studies have shown a lower rate of SIDS among babies who use pacifiers.
- The AAP recommends that parents room share but not bed share. Place your baby's crib near your bed for the first 6 months for convenient breastfeeding and parent contact.
- Make sure that all sleep surfaces and products you use to help your baby sleep have been approved by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and meet federal safety standards.
- Always place your baby on their back to sleep on a separate, flat, and firm surface without any loose bedding.
- Keep the room quiet and calm during nighttime feedings and diaper changes. Keep the lights low and avoid playing with or talking to your baby.
- If your baby is sleeping in your room, use a white noise machine and do all your bedtime prep outside the bedroom.
- Watch for your baby's wakeful periods and put them to sleep as soon as they seem tired.
- If your newborn is fussy, it's okay to rock, cuddle, and sing to them as they settle down. Swaddling can also help to soothe a crying baby.
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How to establish a sleep schedule
Establishing a sleep schedule for a newborn baby can be challenging, as their sleep patterns are unpredictable and vary from baby to baby. Newborns sleep about 8 to 9 hours during the day and about 8 hours at night, but only for 1 to 2 hours at a time. Most babies don't start sleeping through the night (6 to 8 hours) without waking until they are about 3 months old or weigh 12 to 13 pounds. Here are some tips to help establish a sleep schedule:
Recognise Sleep Readiness
Recognise the signs that your baby is ready for sleep. Look for individual sleepy cues, such as yawning, rubbing eyes, or pulling at ears. During the first few weeks, wake windows (time between naps) may only be 35-60 minutes.
Create a Bedtime Routine
Establishing a bedtime routine is essential. This could include bathing, reading, and singing to soothe your baby and signal the end of the day. Be consistent with your routine and responses. Avoid playing or talking with your baby during middle-of-the-night feedings and diaper changes, as this will help them understand that nighttime is for sleeping.
Safe Sleep Environment
Always place your baby on their back to sleep on a separate, flat, and firm surface without any toys, blankets, pillows, or loose bedding. Ensure that all sleep products have been approved by the relevant safety organisations and meet federal safety standards.
Room-Sharing without Bed-Sharing
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends room-sharing without bed-sharing for at least the first 6 months, and ideally for the baby's first year. This helps reduce the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related dangers.
Naps and Daytime Sleep
Allow time for naps each day, as newborns take several short naps during the day. If your baby is having difficulty falling asleep, try putting them in a crib or bassinet while drowsy but still awake. This will help them learn to fall asleep on their own.
Feeding and Sleep
Feed your baby according to their hunger cues, which is usually every 2 to 3 hours during the day. Offer feedings before they reach the crying phase, as they may refuse to feed when they are upset. Newborns who sleep for longer stretches should be awakened to feed every 3 to 4 hours until they show good weight gain.
Remember, it may take a few weeks for your baby to settle into a routine, and safe sleep should always be the priority.
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Frequently asked questions
Newborns should get between 14 and 17 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period.
Newborns sleep about 8 to 9 hours during the day and about 8 hours at night. However, they may not sleep longer than 1 to 2 hours at a time.
Feed your newborn every 2 to 4 hours. In the first few weeks, wake your baby every 3 to 4 hours to feed them until they show good weight gain.
Always place your baby on their back to sleep on a separate, flat, and firm surface without any bumpers or loose bedding. The sleep surface and products should be approved by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and meet federal safety standards.
It is important to establish a bedtime routine for your newborn. You can play soft music, offer a pacifier, or provide a transitional object like a small blanket or soft toy. Rocking, cuddling, and singing can also help soothe your baby.
