Herbie Murray
As a new parent, you may be wondering if you should let your newborn sleep whenever they want. It's important to know that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as every baby is unique and has different sleep needs. However, understanding your newborn's sleep patterns, creating a safe sleep environment, and establishing healthy sleep habits are crucial aspects of this journey. During the initial weeks, your baby's sleep will primarily consist of short bursts between feedings, and they may wake up frequently at night. As they grow, their sleep patterns will gradually change, and you can expect longer stretches of sleep. Navigating this phase can be challenging, but with patience, consistency, and the guidance of healthcare professionals, you can foster a healthy sleep routine for your little one.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sleep patterns | Newborns sleep more than they are awake, for around 18 hours a day. Sleep comes in short bursts of 30 minutes to three hours at a time. |
| Sleep duration | Newborns wake up repeatedly during the night for the first few months. Some babies start to sleep through the night (5-6 hours) by 2-3 months, but this varies. |
| Sleep environment | The baby should sleep in a crib, bassinet, or play yard in the same room as the parents for the first few weeks or months. Bed-sharing is not recommended as it increases the risk of SIDS. |
| Sleep position | Babies should always be placed on their back to sleep, not on their stomach or side. |
| Sleep surface | Use a firm, flat sleep surface with a snugly fitting sheet. Keep soft toys, pillows, blankets, and other loose items away from the baby's sleep area. |
| Sleep products | Only use products specifically designed for sleeping babies, approved by the CPSC, and meeting federal safety standards. Do not use sleep positioners, weighted items, or products claiming to reduce the risk of SIDS. |
| Overheating | Avoid covering the baby's head while sleeping, and watch for signs of overheating. |
| Smoking | Keep the baby away from smokers as secondhand smoke increases the risk of SIDS. |
| Pacifiers | Offer a pacifier at sleep time, but don't force it. If breastfeeding, wait until it is established before offering a pacifier. |
| Hazards | Remove hazards such as cords, ties, ribbons, sharp objects, and accessible hanging items within the baby's reach. |
| Daytime sleep | Encourage daytime sleep by keeping things calm and quiet. Avoid over-stimulation before bedtime. |
| Nighttime feeding | Wake the baby every 3-4 hours to feed until they show good weight gain, usually within the first few weeks. |
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What You'll Learn
Safe sleep environments
It is generally recommended that newborns sleep whenever they want, as they will be asleep more than they are awake. However, it is important to prioritise creating a safe sleep environment to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related deaths.
Sleep Location and Positioning
The safest place for your baby to sleep during the first year of their life is in their own crib, on their back, on a firm, flat surface. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Canadian Paediatric Society recommend room-sharing without bed-sharing. Bed-sharing increases the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related deaths, as it can lead to accidental suffocation and strangulation. Instead, place your baby's crib in your bedroom to keep them nearby, which can also make nighttime breastfeeding easier.
Sleep Surfaces and Products
Ensure that all sleep surfaces and products meet safety standards and are specifically designed for sleeping babies. The crib should be covered with a sheet that fits snugly, and you should avoid using items like pillows, air mattresses, waterbeds, cushions, soft materials, loose bedding, comforters, bulky blankets, and bumper pads in your baby's sleep space.
Temperature and Clothing
Maintain a slightly cool temperature in the room where your baby sleeps. Dress your baby appropriately, such as in sleepers, to ensure they are comfortable without the need for a blanket.
Breastfeeding and Smoking
Breastfeeding is recommended, and if you choose to breastfeed, room-sharing can make it more convenient. Avoid smoking, as it can impact your baby's sleep and health.
Routine and Environment
Establish a calming and consistent bedtime routine. Keep the environment quiet, calm, and dark during nighttime feedings and diaper changes. Avoid too much excitement or stimulation before bedtime, and opt for calmer activities like reading.
Remember, each baby has a unique sleep pattern, and it may take a few weeks for them to differentiate between night and day. Prioritise your baby's safety and well-being, and don't hesitate to reach out to healthcare professionals or support systems if you need advice or assistance.
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Room-sharing vs bed-sharing
Newborns will invariably wake up repeatedly in the night during the first few months of their lives. During this time, it is common for parents to experience disturbed nights, which can be very challenging. If you are formula-feeding, it may be helpful to ask your partner to share the feeds. If you are breastfeeding, your partner can take over the early morning changing and dressing so you can go back to sleep.
While there is no "right" or "wrong" sleeping arrangement for you and your baby, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends room-sharing without bed-sharing. Room-sharing is when you place your baby's crib or bassinet in your own bedroom instead of in a separate nursery. This arrangement keeps the baby nearby and facilitates feeding, comforting, and monitoring at night. It also reduces the risk of SIDS by as much as 50%.
On the other hand, bed-sharing, or sleeping on the same surface as an infant, is not recommended by the AAP and the US Consumer Product Safety Commission due to safety concerns. Bed-sharing increases the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related deaths.
If you are considering transitioning your baby from co-sleeping to sleeping independently in a crib or bed, here are some tips to make the process easier:
- Ensure your baby has ample playtime in their crib or bed so that they become familiar with the space.
- Move into your baby's room temporarily to help them feel more comfortable with the new sleep environment.
- Gradually increase the distance between you and your baby as they fall asleep over several days or weeks.
- Sit on a chair next to the crib or bed and stay with your baby while they fall asleep. Provide comfort if needed, but avoid getting into bed with them.
- Once your baby is asleep, leave the room.
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Sleep patterns and routines
Newborns will invariably wake up repeatedly during the night for the first few months of their lives. During this time, it is important to keep yourself well-rested by asking your partner, friends, or family for help.
Newborns follow their own sleep schedule and patterns, and it may take a few weeks for their brains to develop an internal 24-hour rhythm that distinguishes night from day. During this time, you can help your baby understand the difference by keeping things quiet and calm during middle-of-the-night feedings and diaper changes. Keep the lights low, and avoid playing or talking with your baby. This will signal to them that nighttime is for sleeping.
It is also important to let your baby fall asleep in their crib at night so they learn to associate it with sleep time. During the day, avoid keeping your baby awake in the hopes that they will sleep better at night. Instead, let them sleep when they need to, as overly tired infants tend to have more trouble sleeping at night. If your newborn is fussy, it is okay to rock, cuddle, and sing to them as they settle down. Swaddling, or wrapping your baby in a light blanket, can also help soothe them.
For the first two months, your baby's sleep will come in short bursts of about 30 minutes to three hours at a time, with two-hour breaks in between for feeding. Newborns wake up frequently because their stomachs are small, and they get hungry soon after feeding. These short bursts of sleep and wakefulness are normal and an important part of their growth.
As your baby grows, they will need fewer night feeds and will be able to sleep for longer stretches at night. However, there is a wide range of normal sleep patterns, and some babies may take longer to sleep through the night, which is typically defined as a stretch of 5 to 8 hours.
To establish a good sleep routine, you can try waking your baby for a late-night feeding at a time that suits your schedule. For example, if your baby sleeps after a 7 pm feeding and wakes up at 2 am to eat, try waking them for a feeding at 11 pm, and then put them down to sleep until an early-morning feeding around 5 or 6 am.
Remember, growth spurts, teething, and illnesses can all affect your baby's sleep patterns, and you may need to adjust your routines accordingly. Always prioritize your baby's safety by following safe sleep practices and seeking advice from your pediatrician or health visitor if you have any concerns.
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Overheating and swaddling
Overheating is a concern for newborns. Keep an eye out for signs of overheating, such as sweating or your baby feeling hot to the touch. It is recommended that you do not cover your baby's head while they are sleeping. Additionally, being too hot or too cold can disturb a baby's sleep.
Swaddling is the practice of wrapping a baby in a light blanket. It can help to soothe a crying baby, but it is important to only use a light blanket to avoid overheating. Do not use weighted blankets, sleepers, or swaddles on or around your newborn. Make sure that all sleep surfaces and products you use to help your baby sleep have been approved by the relevant safety authorities.
It is important to note that you should not let your baby fall asleep on products that are not designed for sleeping babies, such as sitting devices (car seats), feeding pillows, or infant loungers. These products are not designed to provide a safe and comfortable sleeping environment for your baby and may increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Room-sharing, where the baby's crib or bassinet is placed in the parents' bedroom, is a safe option that keeps the baby nearby and facilitates feeding, comforting, and monitoring during the night. However, bed-sharing is not recommended as it increases the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related hazards.
The first few weeks of a baby's life can be challenging for parents, as newborns wake up multiple times during the night due to their tiny tummies, and they get hungry soon after feeding. These short bursts of sleep and wakefulness are normal and contribute to their growth. As your baby grows, they will need fewer night feeds and may sleep for longer stretches.
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When to seek advice
It is important to seek advice from a healthcare professional if you are concerned about your newborn's sleep patterns or have questions about safe sleep practices. Here are some specific scenarios when you should consider seeking advice:
Sleep Safety Concerns
If you have questions or concerns about creating a safe sleep environment for your newborn, don't hesitate to consult your paediatrician or healthcare provider. They can guide you on safe sleep positions, sleep surfaces, and potential hazards in the baby's sleep area. This is especially important to prevent the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related hazards.
Excessive Sleep or Sleep Changes
If you notice that your baby is sleeping significantly more than usual or seems excessively sleepy, it is a good idea to talk to your paediatrician. They can help determine if this is normal for your baby or if there might be an underlying issue. Excessive sleepiness could be a sign of an illness, such as a cold or fever, or in rare cases, a medical condition that requires treatment.
Difficulty Sleeping or Establishing a Routine
If your baby is having persistent difficulty sleeping or you are struggling to establish a healthy sleep routine, reach out to your healthcare provider or a sleep specialist. They can provide guidance, answer questions, and offer strategies to help improve your baby's sleep. Remember that growth spurts, teething, and illnesses can all impact your baby's sleep, and it's normal for their sleep patterns to evolve as they grow.
Reflux or Colic
If your baby seems extremely fussy and soothing techniques are not effective, there may be underlying issues such as reflux or colic. In such cases, consulting your paediatrician is essential to get the necessary advice and treatment. They can help identify the cause of your baby's discomfort and provide guidance on managing it.
Mental Health Concerns
Taking care of a newborn can be exhausting and overwhelming, so prioritising your mental health is crucial. If you feel depressed, anxious, or isolated, don't hesitate to seek support. Talk to your parents, partner, or a trusted friend. You can also reach out to a mental health professional or join support groups for new parents to help you navigate this challenging yet rewarding time.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes and no. Newborns follow their own schedule and will invariably wake up repeatedly at night during the first few months. It's important to keep them on a routine and to know what's normal for your baby. Wake your baby every 3-4 hours to eat until they show good weight gain, which usually happens within the first couple of weeks. After that, it's OK to let your baby sleep for longer periods at night.
Keeping your baby safe is your first priority. Always place your baby on their back to sleep, not on their stomach or side. Use a firm, flat sleep surface and cover the mattress with a sheet that fits snugly. Do not put anything else in the crib or bassinet. Keep plush toys, pillows, blankets, quilts, comforters, sheepskins, and bumper pads out of your baby's sleep area. Make sure all sleep surfaces and products you use are approved by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and meet federal safety standards.
There are a few hazards to be aware of. Don't let your baby fall asleep on a product that isn't designed for sleeping babies, such as a car seat, feeding pillow, or infant lounger. Don't use products that claim to lower the risk of SIDS, such as sleep positioners or monitors that detect a baby's heart rate and breathing pattern. Don't cover your baby's head while they're sleeping and watch for signs of overheating. Keep your baby away from smokers as secondhand smoke increases the risk of SIDS.
It may take a few weeks for your baby's brain to know the difference between night and day. To help them understand, keep things quiet and calm during middle-of-the-night feedings and diaper changes. Keep the lights low and don't play with or talk to your baby. Let your baby fall asleep in their crib at night so they learn that it's the place for sleep.
