8 Tips for Helping Your Baby Sleep

Mother with baby in bassinet

Did you know that the average newborn sleeps for 16 to 18 hours a day? But as any new parent knows, getting your baby to sleep through the night can be a challenge. If you’re struggling to get your little one to sleep, here are eight tips that may help:

1. Establish a bedtime routine

One of the best ways to help your baby sleep is to establish a bedtime routine. A calming, consistent routine will signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep. Try including activities such as a warm bath, reading a story, or singing a lullaby in your child’s bedtime routine.

2. Keep the environment conducive to sleep

Make sure that your baby’s sleeping environment is dark, quiet, and cool. Consider using a white noise machine to help your baby sleep if the environment is too noisy. Also try to keep the room at a comfortable temperature – not too hot or too cold.

3. Put your baby to bed when they’re sleepy

Don’t wait until your baby is asleep to put them in their crib or bassinet. Instead, put them down when they’re drowsy but still awake. This will teach them how to fall asleep on their own.

4. Use a sleepsuit

A sleepsuit is a special type of garment that helps babies sleep through the night. It is designed to keep your baby’s arms and legs warm without overheating them. Sleepsuits are available in a variety of sizes and can be found at most baby stores.

5. Don’t use sleep training methods that involve cry-it-out

There is no evidence to suggest that cry-it-out methods are effective in helping babies learn to sleep. In fact, these methods can be harmful to your baby’s development. If you’re considering sleep training, opt for a method that doesn’t involve letting your baby cry for prolonged periods of time.

6. Don’t forget about naps

Naps are an important part of your baby’s sleep routine. Make sure to schedule regular naps during the day so that your baby doesn’t get too tired. If your baby is overtired, they may have trouble falling asleep at night.

7. Feed your baby regularly

Newborns need to eat frequently, so it’s important to feed them on a regular schedule. However, avoid feeding your baby right before bedtime as this may make them too full and uncomfortable to sleep.

8. Be patient.

Remember that it takes time for babies to learn how to sleep through the night. Some may take a few weeks, while others may take a few months. If you’re struggling to get your baby to sleep, be patient and consistent with your approach. In time, your baby will learn to sleep through the night.

With these eight tips, you can help your baby sleep through the night. Creating a calm and consistent bedtime routine, keeping the environment conducive to sleep, and avoiding letting your baby get overtired are all key. And if you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to seek help from a professional.