While newborns sleep 12-18 hours a day, it’s often never at a time that is convenient for parents. It is estimated that having a newborn baby typically results in 400–750 hours of lost sleep for the baby’s parents in the first year. Put these wonderful tips shared by The Huffington Post to the test:
Make like the French: One secret strategy French parents use to get their newborns to sleep through the night is called Le Pause. The seemingly simple strategy allows parents to enjoy newborns who sleep through the night at 2 or 3 weeks old, and who are content to snuggle alone in their cribs.
The key is always put a baby down semi-awake. This teaches babies to put themselves to sleep, making it easier for them to go back to sleep when they wake up at natural interval during the night. This technique may be difficult to master, but one thing to be taken from it is to give your baby a few minutes before instantly pick him/her up.
Use a fan: The white noise technique works for young children as well. It blocks out disturbances, sets a soothing environment and it can be a cue let children know that it is time for bed.
Keep in mind that it is temporary: Many nights you may be greatly sleep deprived, stressed and can’t see an end in sight when your children just won’t go to bed. Temporary sleep disruptions for children are usually normal and related to growth spurts, teething, or dinner that causes an achy tummy. It’ll pass.
Note that all babies are different: While it doesn’t hurt to try different tricks and sleep tips, they may not be as effective as you’d like. Some babies are simply better sleeper than others. As babies grow into children, those sleep patterns may still remain causing one child to need more sleep than another.
Learn to swaddle: You may think this technique is pointless, but it may end making a real difference in calming your baby, easing them into sleep. Give it a try!
Nighttime parenting can be very challenging, but you can get through it. Stick to regular bedtimes and embrace naps. Also, remember that every child is unique, get to know signs of sleepiness and relaxing cues that’ll help them sleep.
These are all spot on. Routine helps too. Same routine every night and baby knows what to expect.
Glad you agree Lisa C. and found this article a great read! More research is supporting consistency with children every day! We certainly appreciate your feedback!