New mothers and fathers often face long, sleepless nights, wondering when their baby will finally sleep through the night. While every infant is different, most infants do not sleep through the night.
Sleep Cycles
Sleep cycles for babies are very different from those of adults. Pediatrician Dr. Bill Sears explains that infants have very short sleep cycles based on their natural circadian rhythms. This means that they move in and out of different phases of sleep. First they are awake, and then they fall into a light sleep. Infants fall into a deep sleep several times each night but only for a short period of time. The length of each sleep cycle is about 50 to 60 minutes, while adult sleep cycles are 90 minutes or longer.
Waking at Night is Normal
Though difficult for parents, it is very normal when infants awaken in the nighttime. Dr. Sears explains that not only is awaking in the night normal for babies, it's essential and healthy. Babies wake up at night to ensure their survival. If babies fall into a deep sleep, it can become difficult for them to wake up and to breathe, which can result in SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). Waking up at night also provides benefits for the brain development of an infant. Therefore, parents should learn to accept waking up at night as normal and healthy.
Sleep Training
Babies can be trained to sleep in a regular pattern of time. This process is called sleep training. Sleep training allows a baby to sleep at more regular intervals, which can benefit both the parents and the baby. Sleep training takes time and persistence by the parents and a commitment to continually put the baby to sleep at the same times every day and night.
Bedtime Routine
Adapting a regular bedtime routine can help an infant to fall asleep faster. Do the same thing every night with your baby before putting him to bed. The bedtime routine can consist of singing a song to the baby, giving the baby a bath or reading a storybook. Regardless of what the bedtime routine is, it can help the baby calm down so that it is easier to fall asleep.
Sleeping Position
According to the Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, babies should sleep on their backs rather than on their stomachs. Putting a baby on his stomach during the daytime while you are watching him is fine, but putting a baby to sleep on his stomach can increase the risk of SIDS. The best way to put a baby to sleep is on his back with no stuffed animals or items around his face.
