One of the most common problems for new parents is their baby’s sleep. The sleep pattern of a newborn and baby is different from that of an adult, and the sleep cycles shift as they grow. A newborn can wake more than once a night, whereas an older baby will be able to fall asleep for longer stretches.
As sleep requirements differ with age, parents may have a clearer understanding of sleep expectations. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to do this, as every baby is unique and has a different schedule. Parents should pay attention to their baby’s sleep cues rather than the clock to stick to a routine.
Baby Sleep Schedule by Age:
Infant Age (Birth to 3 Months)
Newborns don’t yet have a well-established diurnal (day-night) sleep cycle. They tend to sleep for short periods all day and night and may wake up often to feed.
At this age, parents should not set a strict bedtime routine, nor should they anticipate that their infant will sleep through the night. Newborns will need to be fed on a regular basis, which is normal for frequent waking.
Parents can begin to teach the concept of day and night. Normal activities and routines will be maintained during the daytime, and nighttime feeding and changing will be quiet and soothing.
Here are some things parents should know:
- Sleeping a lot during the day and night
- Short periods of sleep
- Feeding every night – routine
- A lack of a predictable sleep pattern
- Slowly increasing awareness of day and night
At this age, children start to develop a routine
Many babies start to have a more regular sleep pattern between 3 and 6 months. May sleep for longer periods in the night, but may be waking throughout the night, which is normal.
It may be a good idea to develop a basic bedtime routine now. Parents can repeat the same routine each night, for example, changing the baby, switching off the lights, feeding the baby, singing a lullaby and settling the baby to sleep.
It’s important to create a routine to signal to the baby that bedtime is coming
Sleep is more predictable at 6 to 9 months. At 6 to 9 months, sleep becomes more predictable.
Many babies develop a more regular sleep-wake pattern around 6 months of age. May take longer naps during the day and at night.
But sometimes, babies go through life-changing moments that can disrupt sleep. Sleep may be disrupted for a short time when learning to crawl, sit or stand up or when experiencing separation anxiety.
It is important that parents attempt to establish a regular bedtime routine and ensure that the child’s bedroom is a quiet place for sleep.
9-12 Months: Developing Good Sleep Routines
By 9 months of age, most babies have a fairly consistent sleep pattern. They can nap during the day, maybe 1 or 2 times and sleep longer at night.
For some babies, the increased activity and curiosity can make it harder to nap; they may reject naps or bedtime. Another cause of waking at night is separation anxiety.
A regular bedtime routine can assist. Dedicated time for parents to do a quiet activity like reading a short book, singing or gentle cuddling before bedtime.
12 Months and Beyond
Many kids go on to establish a consistent sleeping pattern after the first year. Although some toddlers still require a midday nap, others slowly phase out the nap.
Stick to a proper bedtime and morning routine may aid in good sleep habits. Temporary changes are normal, however, during illness, teething, travel and/or developmental milestones.
There are a number of signs that indicate if your baby is tired.
If you know how to tell if the baby is tired, it will be easier to settle him or her. Some common sleep cues are:
- Yawning
- Rubbing the eyes
- Turning away from others or toys
- Becoming less active
- Fussiness
- Crying
- Becoming unusually quiet
Parents should attempt to react to these signs rather than waiting until the baby is very tired.
Creating a healthy baby sleep routine can be difficult for some parents.
There is no need to have a complicated bedtime routine. Doing the same activities in the same sequence every night can help babies learn that it’s time to rest.
Parents can follow, for instance:
- Bath
- Sleepwear
- Feeding
- Quiet cuddling
- Lullaby
- Bedtime
Natural light and normal household activities will help babies know it is daytime during the day. Parents can reduce the amount of light and noise at night.
It’s also important to provide a safe and comfortable sleeping area. Babies should sleep on their back, and their sleep surface is firm, with no loose bedding, pillows or other soft objects.
Here are a few of the most common baby sleep mistakes to avoid
One of the most common concerns parents have is whether their baby is sleeping enough. But some typical sleep problems can make the experience more stressful.
Expecting a newborn to sleep through the night: It is normal for newborns to wake up frequently in early infancy.
Comparing babies: Every baby has their own sleep pattern, and comparing them to others may lead to undue worry.
Missed sleep cues: When babies are overtired, it can sometimes be more challenging to help them settle.
Very strict schedule: Don’t expect your young babies to follow a strict schedule. A flexible schedule can sometimes be more convenient.
Frequently changing bedtime routines: Routine helps babies learn sleep patterns.
When Can Parents Give Medical Advice?
Parents should consult a paediatrician if concerned about sleep, feeding, growth and/or behaviour. If sleep issues occur along with breathing problems, poor feeding, unusual sleepiness or other worrisome signs, medical advice is particularly important.
Final Thoughts
Baby sleep patterns vary immensely in the first year. They typically sleep in shorter intervals and wake up often, and as they get older, they start sleeping longer at night and taking more regular naps during the day.
It’s not about making it perfect, but about developing good sleep routines, picking up on your baby’s sleep signals and following safe sleep guidelines. Most babies start to sleep more regularly with time and consistency.