Having a new baby is full of excitement, changes and maybe a little stress. Especially if your baby isn’t sleeping. It is definitely possible to get your baby on a healthy and regular sleep schedule. Here are a few tips on where to begin.
1. Establish a Routine
Having consistent bedtime and nap times is important in helping your baby sleep better. Keeping their schedule predictable will help them to know what to expect and allow them to settle into a more restful sleep. Try to keep the same routine each day, such as diapering and dressing before dinner, followed by a warm bath, and then story time.
2. Create a Sleep Environment for Your Baby
Creating a sleep environment for your baby is important to help them get the most restful sleep possible. Make sure their crib has comfortable bedding with just one blanket, and keep the room temperature at a comfortable level without too much heat or cold. You may also want to keep it dark, as light can disturb their sleep. Consider a sleep suit for them to wear at night as well. These types of suits have been proven to help babies feel safer and sleep longer.
3. Wind Down Before Bedtime
Help your baby to wind down before bedtime by keeping the noise level low and the lights dimmed one hour prior to bedtime. It is also important to give them plenty of cuddle time and physical contact. This will help them to relax so they can drift off more easily.
4. Use White Noise
White noise can be very helpful in getting your baby to sleep better by masking any outside noises that may disturb them while they are sleeping. There are many white noise machines, apps, and videos available to help create a peaceful atmosphere in your baby’s bedroom.
5. Let Your Baby Sleep Alone
Giving your baby their own space to sleep will help them learn to fall asleep independently. If you are comfortable with it, let your baby cry for a few minutes before quickly entering the room to reassure them and then leaving again. This will help them to learn that they can self-soothe and drift off on their own.
6. Monitor Your Baby’s Sleep
Monitoring your baby’s sleep habits will give you an insight into what works best for them and what may be interfering with their restful sleep. Pay attention to how much they are sleeping, when they are resting, and what might be waking them. This will help you to make any necessary adjustments so they can get the best sleep possible.
Getting your baby to sleep better doesn’t have to be a struggle if you keep these tips in mind. Following a consistent routine with soothing activities before bedtime, creating a sleep environment, using white noise, and monitoring their sleep can all help your baby get the restful night’s sleep they need. With these tips, you will be well on your way to helping your baby get the best possible night’s sleep. Good luck!
