The website BabyCenter states that 70 percent of babies sleep through the night at 9 months, with many babies accomplishing the feat earlier. Initially, sleeping through the night consists of approximately five hours of uninterrupted sleep, which later becomes a true full night of sleep. While it's impossible to predict if your child is ready to sleep through the night, it's possible to train him so that he can help himself to sleep as long as possible after you put him down at night.
Step 1
Develop a nighttime routine for you and your baby. Create a series of intimate and relaxing activities, such as a bath, a story and some music. Carry out this routine each night, and she'll eventually come to anticipate and enjoy it. This helps you to teach your baby the difference between night and day, which is the first step toward sleeping through the night.
Step 2
Put your baby down to sleep while drowsy, but not yet asleep. Let him fall asleep on his own in the crib. By doing this, you teach your baby how to self-soothe, which can help him to sleep deeper into the night. It also helps him to associate the crib with sleep, putting him at ease as he enters the crib for the night.
Step 3
Let your baby cry when she wakes up in the middle of the night. Give her 5 minutes or so to settle herself down. Doing this helps her to realize that she can put herself back to sleep and does not need you to come in and soothe her. If she wails away for longer than 10 minutes, go in and see if she needs a feeding or a diaper change.
Tips and Warnings
- Leaving your baby in his room alone can be a scary ordeal for him at first. However, it's necessary for his development. If you run in the second he starts crying, or if you rock him to sleep every night, that's all he'll ever expect. In time, he'll reward your faith by sleeping through the night.
- When placing your baby in his crib, be aware of any potential sudden infant death syndrome, or SIDS, risks. Items like blankets and pillows can cause your baby to suffocate.
Things You'll Need
- Story book
- Infant bathtub
- Lullaby CD or songbook
