Baby Sleep: What Parents Need to Know
Baby Sleep: What Parents Need to Know
Baby sleep is one of the most important — and often challenging — parts of parenting. Good sleep is crucial for a baby’s growth, brain development, and mood. Understanding how baby sleep works can help parents feel more confident and better equipped to handle the ups and downs of infant sleep patterns.
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- How Much Sleep Do Babies Need?
Sleep needs vary by age:
• Newborns (0–3 months): 14–17 hours a day, often in 2–4 hour stretches.
• Infants (4–11 months): 12–15 hours total, including naps.
• Toddlers (1–2 years): 11–14 hours, usually with one nap.
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- Baby Sleep Cycles
Babies have shorter sleep cycles than adults. Their sleep includes:
• Active (REM) sleep: Light sleep where they might move, twitch, or make noises.
• Quiet (deep) sleep: Still and restful.
Babies often wake between cycles, especially in the early months.
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- Safe Sleep Guidelines
To reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS):
• Always place baby on their back to sleep.
• Use a firm sleep surface (crib or bassinet with a fitted sheet).
• Keep soft items (pillows, toys, blankets) out of the crib.
• Share a room (but not a bed) for at least the first 6 months.
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- Tips to Improve Baby Sleep
• Create a bedtime routine: A warm bath, lullaby, or gentle rocking helps signal it’s time to sleep.
• Consistency is key: Try to keep naps and bedtime around the same time every day.
• Watch for sleep cues: Yawning, rubbing eyes, or fussiness may mean your baby is ready to sleep.
• Encourage self-soothing: Place baby in the crib when drowsy but still awake to help them learn to fall asleep on their own.
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- Common Sleep Challenges
• Night wakings: Normal in the first few months.
• Sleep regressions: Temporary sleep disruptions often around 4 months, 8–10 months, and 18 months.
• Separation anxiety: Can disrupt sleep around 9–12 months.
Patience, consistency, and gentle reassurance usually help these phases pass.
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Final Thoughts
Every baby is different. Some sleep well early, while others take longer to settle into a routine. Don’t compare your baby’s sleep to others. If sleep issues persist or you have concerns, consult a pediatrician or sleep specialist.
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