Getting a baby to sleep isn't as easy as putting him in a crib and leaving the room. He's not going to sleep just because you want him to. Many babies have odd sleeping habits, such as confusing night with day, taking minor catnaps during the day or barely sleeping at all. Teaching your baby to break out of these habits can be a very frustrating experience. However, with the right approach, you can help your baby to sleep better and more regularly.
Step 1
Develop a reasonable level of expectations regarding your baby's sleep. According to KidsHealth, newborn babies sleep about 16 hours a day and usually don't sleep for more than 4 hours at a time. Furthermore, your baby can't go too long without being fed, so you must expect frequent interruptions throughout the day and night.
Step 2
Be aware of the signs that your baby is tired. If she's yawning, rubbing her eyes or is generally fussy, these are signs that she's ready to sleep. Though your baby will likely fall asleep anywhere she may be--for example, in an infant swing or bouncy seat--you should pick up on her cues and put her down for a proper nap. This will help her get used to a nap-time ritual of being physically put down in a crib or bassinet to sleep.
Step 3
Create a nighttime routine. A consistent nighttime routine can help teach your baby that it's nighttime, which means it's time to go to sleep. Your routine can contain anything you'd like--common items include baths, stories and music--but the most important thing is that you stick to it, especially as your baby begins to understand its true meaning.
Step 4
Develop a loose schedule for naps. It's impossible to put a newborn on a schedule for naps, but you can help institute some semblance of normalcy by getting a general idea of when your baby naps and how long he sleeps. If he gets a steady amount of rest during the day, he is more likely to sleep better at night. Try to keep naps to a maximum of 3 hours to ensure that he doesn't confuse day and night.
Step 5
Keep nighttime play to a minimum. Your baby is bound to wake up throughout the night--she's physically unable to go without food for a long period of time. When you get up with her, ensure that it's as boring as possible so that she won't want to stay up with you. Use only the smallest level of light possible, try to keep the TV off and don't talk to her. This will help her realize that daytime is for play and nighttime is for sleep.
Tips and Warnings
- Be patient with your baby as he learns how to sleep better. It's a process that takes time. Getting frustrated with him will only set back his development. Keep an eye on your baby's preferences. Some babies like being swaddled, while others break out of the swaddle shortly after birth. Some like to sleep on their backs, while others prefer to sleep on their side. Feel free to experiment, but don't change things for the sake of change.
- Make sure that your baby's crib or bassinet is safe. Keep your baby clear of items such as blankets and pillows that can cause suffocation. Also, do not place her on her stomach, because this poses a significant risk of SIDS.
Things You'll Need
- Crib or bassinet
- Story book
- Infant bath tub
- Lullaby CD
