5 Ways to Support Your Newborn’s Sleep
Welcoming a newborn into your family is a joyful experience, but it often comes with sleepless nights.
Understanding how to support your baby’s sleep can make a significant difference for both you and your little one.
In this blog, we’ll explore five effective ways to promote better sleep for your newborn and discuss common causes of sleep disturbances.
Let’s dive in!
Understanding Newborn Sleep
Newborns have unique sleep patterns.
They typically sleep between 14 to 17 hours a day, but this sleep is often fragmented into short intervals.
This can be challenging for parents, especially when trying to establish a routine.
What Causes Newborns Not to Sleep?
- Hunger: Newborns have small stomachs and may need to feed every few hours, including during the night.
- Discomfort: Diaper changes, temperature extremes (too hot or too cold), or tight clothing can disrupt sleep.
- Overstimulation: Too much noise, bright lights, or activity can overwhelm a newborn, making it difficult for them to settle down.
- Sleep Associations: If a baby associates sleep with being rocked or nursed, they may struggle to fall asleep independently.
- Developmental Milestones: Periods of growth spurts or developmental changes can lead to increased wakefulness.
5 Ways to Support Your Newborn’s Sleep
1. Use an Infant Sound Machine
An infant sound machine can be a helpful tool in promoting better sleep for your newborn.
By providing soothing sounds such as white noise or gentle lullabies, it can help drown out disruptive noises in the home or environment.
Consistent use of a sound machine creates a positive sleep association, signaling to your baby that it’s time to sleep, while the calming sounds mimic the noises of the womb, making your newborn feel more secure and relaxed.
When selecting a sound machine, look for features such as volume control and various sounds, so you can customize it to your baby’s needs.
Out of all of the sound machines we’ve tried, Bubzi’s Soothing Sound Machine is one of our favorites.
Bubzi’s Sound Machine is an ideal sleep aid for newborns, combining soothing sounds with an adorable penguin design to create a comforting atmosphere.
With 10 calming lullabies, white noise, and a gentle heartbeat sound, it helps infants fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
The starlight projector casts calming constellation lights, enhancing the peaceful sleeping environment, while the cry-activated sensor provides automatic comfort when your baby needs it. 1
Plus, its portable design makes it easy to bring along on family trips, ensuring your little one has a familiar sleep aid wherever you go.
Simply follow the directions and you’re good to go!
2. Create a Consistent Sleep Environment
To establish a calming sleep space for your baby, use blackout curtains to create darkness during naps and nighttime sleep.
Incorporating soft background noise, such as white noise, can drown out other sounds and create a soothing atmosphere.
Additionally, maintaining a comfortable room temperature of around 68-72°F (20-22°C) will help prevent your baby from overheating or feeling chilly.
3. Establish a Bedtime Routine
Creating a calming bedtime routine will signal to your newborn that it’s time to sleep.
You might start with a warm bath to soothe and relax your baby, followed by a gentle massage that promotes relaxation.
Finally, consider singing or playing soft music to create a peaceful ambiance that encourages sleep.
4. Encourage Daytime Awareness
To help your baby differentiate between day and night, ensure they are exposed to natural light during the day and engage in gentle play.
In contrast, keep the lights dim and the environment quiet at night to signal that it’s time for sleep, reinforcing a healthy sleep-wake cycle.
5. Practice Safe Sleep Habits
It’s essential to ensure that your baby sleeps safely to promote better rest.
Always place your newborn on their back to sleep, as this reduces the risk of SIDS.
Use a firm crib mattress with a fitted sheet and avoid placing pillows, blankets, or stuffed animals in the crib to minimize suffocation risks.
Bonus: Be Attentive to Cues
Every baby is unique, so it’s important to pay attention to your newborn’s sleep cues.
Look for signs of tiredness, such as yawning, rubbing their eyes, or fussiness.
When you notice these cues, try to put your baby down for a nap or bedtime before they become overtired, which can make it harder for them to settle.
Supporting Newborn Sleep
Supporting your newborn’s sleep involves creating a nurturing environment and being attentive to their needs.
By understanding the common causes of sleep disruptions and implementing these five strategies, you can help your baby (and yourself) enjoy more restful nights.
Remember, every baby is unique, so be patient and flexible as you find what works best for your family.
Happy sleeping!
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Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. This blog or the writer is not a licensed healthcare professional, and the content should not be used as a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice. Always consult with your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or making any changes to your healthcare routine.
