Baby sleeping routines
Every baby's sleeping pattern can vary, but whatever schedule your newborn follows we’ve got a few suggestions to help your baby to develop good sleeping habits right from the outset.
Learn the sleepy signs
Overtiredness can make it difficult for your baby to fall asleep so it's important to know when they're ready for a nap. You'll soon learn to tell instinctively when they're tired, but until then, signs to look for include crying, rubbing their eyes, pulling on their ears, and faint dark circles under their eyes.
Reinforce the difference between day and night
During the first couple of weeks you'll be living by your baby's timetable, which is completely natural. But after that you can start to teach them the difference between day and night. During the day, try to keep the house bright, play together as much as you can, keep them alert and active and try not to let them sleep for long periods at a time. When night falls, make your house a much calmer, quieter place with lower lighting and less activity. It may not seem to make much difference straight away but eventually it will help them to learn that night-time is the time for sleep.
The benefits of a bedtime routine
At around 2 months, it's a good idea to develop a calm, soothing bedtime routine. A bath, a quiet cuddle, a bedtime story or a lullaby can all help your baby to understand that it's time to go to sleep. You can start the routine anywhere in the house but try to make it lead to the bedroom where you can finally say goodnight.
Leave them to settle on their own
From around 6 to 8 weeks, some parents choose to let their baby learn how to fall asleep on their own. It can be a big step to take, but try putting them in their cot while they're sleepy but still awake. They may cry out at first if they're used to being rocked or talked to, but the sooner they get used to settling themselves, the easier they'll settle whenever they wake in the night.
When it comes to teaching good sleeping habits, there are no hard and fast rules. As long as you’re prepared to experiment, you'll find a routine that works for both you and your baby.
It can take time to get into a routine, so try not to worry if it's taking longer than you expected. If you have a question about your baby’s sleeping habits, or want some suggestions of other ways to settle them, just get in touch. Our team of mums, baby care advisors and a midwife are here to help. Give us a call anytime on 0800 996 1000.