Helping Your Baby Sleep

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If you've recently given birth, you've probably already experienced a few sleepless nights. Some babies just don't sleep as well as other babies. Fortunately, getting your newborn to sleep peacefully doesn't require magic. Use this guide to learn some ways to help your child develop good sleeping habits.

1. Establish a Routine – Establishing a bedtime routine can help your child sleep better through both the baby and toddler phase. At first, this routine won't include much more than putting her in pyjamas and placing her in the cot. Over time, your baby will gradually learn to associate sleep with this bedtime routine. You can even start other bedtime habits early on, including reading to your child and giving her a bath.

2. Avoid Stimulation – During the evening and nighttime feedings, avoid too much noise or visual stimulation. Although your child always appreciates hearing you talk to him, it's better to avoid it or at least talk very quietly. Keeping a quiet atmosphere will help your baby calm down and relax. If possible, keep the lights dim during any nighttime feedings.

3. Don't Wait – Some new parents think they can help their child sleep through the night if they keep the baby awake when she's obviously already tired. In many cases, this can backfire and cause your baby to feel unhappy and irritable. You may end up with a baby that refuses to fall asleep at all. Let your baby tell you when she's tired through her body language. If you learn her cues, you'll learn how to respond more quickly to her needs.

4. Settle Down – Help your baby settle down if he's fussy at bedtime. You can hold your baby and sooth him with gentle motions. If your baby frequently falls asleep in your arms, you'll need to learn how to carefully transfer him to his cot. This is easier to do if he's only partially asleep. If he wakes up during the process, gently rub his back and sooth him to sleep. 

5. Know the Averages – It's not uncommon for a baby to sleep over 16 hours a day. However, most babies only sleep in small stretches for a couple of hours at a time. After a few months, your baby won't need many feedings during the night and will probably sleep for five hours at a time. It will take a few more months before your baby can potentially sleep through the night, however.

As a new mother, your child's sleeping habits will be one of the biggest challenges you face through the newborn phase. However, this is a normal part of life with a newborn. With proper encouragement and a good routine, your baby can develop excellent sleeping habits.

Guest post by Ken Myers, an Expert Advisor on multiple household help issues to many Organizations and groups, and is a mentor for other “Mom-preneurs” seeking guidance.  He is a regular contributor of “www.gonannies.com/”.  You can get in touch with him at kmyers.ceo@gmail.com.