As your newborn grows from infant to toddler, each phase of nighttime sleep may seem to come with its own difficulties. Mayo Clinic experts indicate that until your child is 3 months of age, he may sleep 16 hours a day--sometimes more--in short stretches, after which time sleeping increases to around 5 hours each night, as fewer feedings are required. By the time your child is 6 months of age, it's entirely possible that he'll sleep through the night. There are, however, baby sleeping issues to be aware of at each stage of your child's life.
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is a primary concern among parents who put their infant down for the night. SIDS is defined on the American SIDS Institute website as the "sudden death of an infant under one year of age which remains unexplained after a thorough case investigation, including performance of a complete autopsy, examination of the death scene, and review of the clinical history."
Although the exact cause of SIDS remains unknown, the American Academy of Pediatricians notes that it's associated with infants who do not "back sleep." The AAP and Mayo Clinic experts urge parents to always put baby in her crib with her back flush against a firm mattress, be it for a brief nap or nighttime sleep. To prevent the child's skull from flattening, alter the way her head is positioned every night, the AAP advises.
Separation Anxiety
A child's sleeping patterns may be disrupted by separation anxiety between the ages of 6 months and 2 years, according to the AAP. Although it's normal for infants to cry out for a parent in the middle of the night, the baby should remain in his crib after you comfort him--not taken to bed with you. An April 2008 "Time" magazine report indicated that certain "maladaptive parenting behaviors," such as co-sleeping and staying in an older child's room until he nods off, resulted in preschool-aged children with disrupted sleep patterns such as bad dreams/nightmares, difficulty falling asleep and abbreviated sleep times at night.
Difficulty Waking Up
For up to 2 weeks after baby's birth, it's important to rouse her for feedings every 3 hours, 24 hours a day, the Mayo Clinic warns, pointing out that newborn children often lose weight shortly after birth rather than gain it. Rousing your infant can be a challenge, according to the AAP, as contrary to every parent's fear, babies have the ability to sleep through just about anything. When waking your child, do so gently, not abruptly. The AAP suggests several methods, including talking or singing to her, or raising her arms and legs. You may also undress her or "pretend change" her diaper (whether this is needed or not). As a last resort, you may choose to bathe your sleepy baby to get her to wake up, although the AAP stresses that this technique should be used infrequently.
Sleep Apnea
As your baby nears toddler age, keep a keen ear out for signs of sleep apnea, which affects 2 percent of all children. Sleep apnea is characterized by snoring and difficulty breathing during sleep, but it may also present in the form of a cranky who's groggy during the day. Sleep apnea in normal children is usually caused by large tonsils and adenoids, which can be removed surgically.
Sleep Tight
Safe sleep is the best sleep for your baby--and you'll get better shut-eye, too, if you practice healthy sleeping practices. The AAP states that the best place for your newborn to sleep is in a crib or bassinet in the same room with you, within arm's reach. Clear the sleeping environment of loose blankets, stuffed toys, pillows or anything that could cover your child's face. Avoid bundling baby up in too many clothes. If you notice that your child sweats, has flushed cheeks and sweaty hair, he's too hot--and more at risk for SIDS, the AAP cautions. Dress your child lightly, in clothing comfortable for an adult.
