Tips For Getting Your Baby To Sleep

Unless she is hungry, cold, or uncomfortable, it is likely that your newborn baby will spend at least 60% of her time asleep.

Your baby may fall asleep immediately after and sometimes during  a feeding. She will probably be indifferent to noises such as doors shutting or the radio. In fact, she may find certain noises soothing. Babies' sleeping patterns do vary, though, so if your baby is wakeful after a feeding, don't insist that she stay in her crib.

It is important that your baby learn to distinguish between day and night. When it becomes dark outside, close the curtains and turn the lights very low. Make sure she is warm enough, and when she wakes during the night, feed her quickly and quietly without turning the lights up; don't play with her. In time, she'll learn the difference between a day and a nighttime feeding.

You will probably find it easiest to let your baby sleep in something that makes her portable. During the day, a car seat with a earning handle is ideal if you drive. If you don't have a car, a portable bassinet is suitable both day and night since it is easily movable; some types can be attached to a wheeled chassis to become a carriage. When she outgrows a bassinet she will need a proper crib.

Sleeping With You: Some parents opt to have their newborn sleep with them because night feedings are easier to cope with. It shouldn't be a difficult habit to break after a couple of weeks. If you do sleep with your baby, let her lie between you and your partner so she won't fall out of bed. There is little chance of rolling on top of her, but if you're worried you may prefer not to have her in your bed.

Maintain Temperature: Pay careful attention to the temperature of your baby's room. Babies cannot regulate their body temperatures as well as adults; to maintain the right level of warmth they need a constant temperature and enough blankets or sleeping clothes to keep them warm - but not too warm. A night light or dimmer switch will mean that you can check your baby during the night without waking her.

<< Previous    [1]  2    Next >>