How to Overcome Rough Nights with a Newborn

How to How to Overcome Overcome Rough Rough Nights with a Nights with a Newborn Newborn

BY RACHEL DA SILVA Typically, newborns wake up to eat every 2-3 hours and it can be challenging to find time to rest in between. However, there are a few ways to help get a little more sleep during those first few months. Although it is recommended to wait to sleep train until your baby is a few months old, you can start “sleep cues” from the time your baby is born. These can set the stage for healthy sleep habits that will last them for the rest of their lives.

Tip #1: Age-Appropriate Daytime Schedule

My first recommendation is always to have an age-appropriate daytime schedule. Make sure your baby has stimulation during the day and plenty of naps. As a rule of thumb, if your baby has been up for about an hour, it is time to sleep again!

As a newborn, your baby might be sleepy during the day and then wake up at night. To change this schedule, the best thing you can do is try to wake up the baby if it has been too long. Do not skip feedings during the day or you will have to make up for it at night. The best way to wake your baby is by taking off the clothes and changing the diaper. If the baby still needs stimulations try an infant massage and some skin to skin time.

Tip #2: Set the Environment for Sleep

Next is to create an environment for sleep. Have a safe crib that is free of clutter and distractions. It is also a good idea to incorporate sleep cues into your bedtime routine. These include songs, night lights, stories, and behaviors that the baby will associate with sleep.

Make sure to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) that you avoid the use of loose blankets and items in the crib. The baby should be alone in the crib on a hard and flat surface. This will also help you sleep by knowing that your baby is safe and away from harm at night.

Tip #3: Encourage Independence

My third recommendation is to try to encourage your baby to fall asleep independently. The best time to put your baby

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