Evie Summers
Sleep is crucial for a newborn's growth and development. However, the sleep patterns of newborns vary, with some sleeping more or less than others. Newborns generally sleep between 12 and 17 hours in a 24-hour period, including daytime naps. They sleep in short bursts, known as sleep cycles, which can range from 20 to 50 minutes. Newborns don't initially distinguish between day and night, and it can take time for them to develop an internal 24-hour rhythm or circadian rhythm. During the first few months, they frequently wake up at night for feeds due to their tiny stomachs, and this can be a challenging time for new parents. Establishing a bedtime routine and creating a calm environment can aid your newborn's sleep. Typically, by the time they are three months old, newborns may start to understand the difference between day and night, and their sleep patterns may begin to improve.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sleep duration | 12-18 hours in a 24-hour period |
| Sleep cycles | 20-50 minutes long |
| Sleep-wake rhythm | Newborns don't know the difference between day and night |
| Feeding | Need to be fed every 2-4 hours |
| Crying | Increased crying from 2 weeks to 3-4 months, with a peak at 6-8 weeks |
| Sleep improvement | Varies, but generally improves around 3-4 months |
| Sleep routine | Having a bedtime routine can help the baby calm down and know it's time for sleep |
| Naps | Keeping naps as part of the daytime routine is important |
| Overstimulation | Can cause sleep disturbances |
| Growth spurts | May lead to more frequent waking due to increased feeding needs |
| Self-soothing | Older babies should be allowed to fall asleep on their own to learn self-soothing |
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What You'll Learn
Newborns sleep in short bursts, known as sleep cycles
In the first few months, newborns frequently wake up during the night due to their tiny stomachs, requiring them to feed every few hours. They may also need to be changed or adjusted to sleep again. This can result in disturbed nights for new parents, who may need to adapt their routines and seek support from partners or relatives to manage their own sleep.
Breastfeeding or formula feeding does not determine when a baby will sleep through the night. Instead, it is advised to prioritise the newborn's feeding needs and develop a routine together. Establishing a bedtime routine, such as a bath, singing, or reading, can help newborns calm down and prepare for sleep. Feeding at the start of the bedtime routine is also recommended to prevent associating feeding with falling asleep.
As newborns grow, their sleep patterns change, and they gradually develop an internal 24-hour rhythm that distinguishes day from night. This development typically starts around three months of age, and by four to twelve months, they should be sleeping 12 to 16 hours a day, including naps. However, it's important to remember that every baby is unique, and their sleep patterns may vary.
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Newborns don't know the difference between day and night
Newborns are adjusting to life outside the dark, noisy womb, and it takes time for them to settle into their regular sleep patterns. This can lead to day and night confusion, when a baby sleeps when they’re supposed to be awake and stays up all night instead. This is a common issue for parents, who understandably want to get some shut-eye themselves.
There are some strategies to help your newborn establish a healthy sleep-wake cycle. Firstly, it's important to establish a calm and relaxing bedtime routine. This could include a bath, dimming the lights, reducing noise, a feed, a massage, a diaper change, and a bedtime song. The routine should signal to your baby that it is time to wind down and prepare for sleep. It is also beneficial to expose your baby to light and gentle play during the day, and to provide a dim and quiet environment at night.
Another tip is to ensure your newborn doesn't nap too much during the day. While good quality naps are important to prevent overtiredness, too much daytime sleep can interfere with nighttime sleep. If your newborn sleeps for 3-4 hour stretches during the day, it is recommended to wake them up after a couple of hours to preserve a longer stretch of sleep for nighttime. It is also beneficial to establish a wake-up time for your baby, preferably no later than 8 am.
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Babies' sleep patterns vary
All babies are different and have their own sleep patterns. Some sleep for long periods, while others sleep in short bursts. Some soon sleep through the night, while some do not for a long time.
Newborns generally sleep for 12 to 16 hours in a 24-hour period. However, this can vary, and some newborns sleep for up to 18 or even 19 hours. They sleep in short bursts, known as sleep cycles, which are usually around 20 to 50 minutes long. Newborns wake frequently during the night, often because they need to be fed or changed. They also do not know the difference between day and night and do not have established sleep-wake rhythms.
From birth, some babies need more or less sleep than others. Their sleep patterns can also change as they grow and enter different stages. Growth spurts, teething, and illnesses can all affect how your baby sleeps. It's a good idea to be prepared to change routines as your baby grows.
Babies 4 to 12 months old should sleep for 12 to 16 hours a day, including naps. Getting this much sleep supports your baby's health and growth. However, there are no official recommendations for babies younger than 4 months old, as research hasn't linked a specific amount of sleep to particular health benefits.
It's important to remember that every baby is different, and you should not compare your baby's sleep pattern to that of other babies. Try to sleep when your baby sleeps, and don't worry about keeping the house silent while they sleep. It's good to get your baby used to sleeping through a certain amount of noise. Establishing a bedtime routine can also help your baby calm down and know it's time for sleep.
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Establishing a bedtime routine
Start When You're Ready
It's important to note that there is no right or wrong time to start a bedtime routine. Some sources suggest starting when your baby is around 6 to 8 weeks old, while others recommend starting as early as 4 to 6 weeks. However, don't feel pressured to impose a strict routine right away. Take the time to recover from childbirth and adjust to life with your newborn.
Keep It Short and Simple
In the beginning, a bedtime routine can be as simple as a cuddly feeding and reading a book. As your baby gets older, you can gradually add more steps, such as a baby massage, a warm bath, or playing lullabies or white noise. Keep in mind that newborns don't stay awake for long, so the routine may initially feel like feeding and diaper changes before they fall asleep again.
Be Flexible and Patient
Remember that every child is unique, and their sleep patterns will vary. Be prepared to adapt the routine as your baby grows and enters different developmental stages. Growth spurts, teething, and illnesses can all impact their sleep. Be patient with yourself and your baby during this time, as it takes a while for newborns to develop an internal 24-hour rhythm or circadian rhythm.
Prioritize Feeding and Comfort
Newborns have tiny tummies and need to feed frequently. Feeding is an essential part of your baby's bedtime routine, and it's recommended to feed them at the start to prevent them from relying on feeding to fall asleep. Additionally, creating a calm and comfortable environment is crucial. You can use techniques like swaddling, rocking, or dimming the lights to signal that it's time for sleep.
Involve Older Siblings
If you have an older child, you may want to combine bedtime routines for your toddler and newborn. This can include activities like undressing and applying lotion, reading books, or playing lullabies or white noise together. Just remember that it will take extra time, and toddlers may delay the process.
Modify as Needed
As your child grows, you'll need to modify their bedtime routine accordingly. If they start refusing sleep or having difficulty falling asleep, it may be a sign that it's time to make some changes. Work towards a routine that helps your child wind down and prepares them mentally for bedtime.
Remember, the key is to be flexible and responsive to your newborn's unique needs. By establishing a bedtime routine, you're not only teaching your baby healthy sleep habits but also creating a special bonding experience for both of you.
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Swaddling can help newborns sleep
Newborns generally sleep for 12 to 16 hours a day, but they sleep in short bursts of 20 to 50 minutes as they need to be fed or changed. They also do not know the difference between day and night and do not have established sleep-wake rhythms. As a result, newborn babies invariably wake up multiple times during the night for the first few months.
Swaddling can be a great way to help newborns sleep. It is the process of wrapping a baby in a traditional sleep swaddle, which can help them calm down and sleep better. Swaddling creates a safe and comfortable environment for the baby, mimicking the familiar feeling of being in the womb. It can also prevent dangerous situations that may occur while the infant is sleeping.
Swaddling is especially beneficial for newborns who seem unhappy sleeping on their backs. While sleeping on their backs is the safest position, some babies may wriggle or cry and seem uncomfortable. In such cases, parents may be tempted to let their babies sleep on their stomachs, which is not recommended as it increases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Swaddling can help keep babies calm and settled, making it easier for them to sleep on their backs safely.
Additionally, swaddling has been found to increase the duration of quiet sleep in infants and reduce the number of sleep state changes. It can also be combined with white noise, swinging motion, and sucking to further soothe crying babies and promote sleep. However, it is important to note that swaddling should be done correctly, ensuring that the wrap is secure but not too tight or loose, and providing the right amount of insulation without being too heavy.
While swaddling can be beneficial, it is important to be mindful of potential risks. Some studies suggest that swaddling may increase the risk of SIDS, especially for infants who are new to swaddling. Therefore, it is recommended to discontinue swaddling once your baby starts turning over on their own, usually around four months of age.
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Frequently asked questions
Newborns generally sleep 12 to 16 hours in a 24-hour period, but this varies. They sleep in short bursts, known as sleep cycles, which are usually around 20 to 50 minutes long. In the first 3 months, newborns wake up frequently during the night to be fed or changed. At around 3 months of age, they may start to learn the rhythm of day and night.
You can help your newborn learn to sleep more at night by exposing them to light and gently playing with them during the day. You can also provide a dim and quiet environment at night. Establishing a bedtime routine can also help your newborn sleep. This can include giving your baby a bath, singing a lullaby, or reading them a book.
Newborns generally sleep much of the day and night, waking only for feedings every few hours. They do not know the difference between day and night and do not have established sleep-wake rhythms. If your baby has been sleeping consistently and suddenly starts waking more often, there may be a problem or they may be going through a growth spurt.
