'Sleeping like a baby' is a pretty vague expression isn't it?
Granted, babies sleep. A lot. But when and for how long varies, not only for each baby, but from week to week. So the great news is that if your current bedtime routine feels less like the soothing 1950s song ‘Mr Sandman’ and more like ‘Enter Sandman’ by Metallica, a happier sleeping pattern is just a few nights away.
At a glance
- Baby's sleep rhythms will change frequently
- Newborns sleep more than they're awake, although it doesn't always feel like it
- The Lullaby Trust is a great resource for sleep safety tips
No two babies’ sleep rhythms are alike and they will change frequently. Whilst you may imagine all your baby mates doing morning yoga, aglow from yet another peaceful night’s sleep, this is unlikely to be the case. Whatever you’re experiencing now is perfectly normal for you and your baby and there is a new normal just around the corner.
Sleep Facts: Newborns
Newborns are generally asleep more than they are awake. They can sleep for anything from eight to 18 hours per day. They are likely to wake during the night because they need feeding, changing or are too hot or cold.
Sleep Facts: Three to six months
As your baby grows they will need night feeds less regularly and will begin to sleep for longer periods at a time.
Sleep Facts: Six to 12 months
Your six to 12 month old may well wake up during the night due to hunger or teething and it is likely that they will be sleeping for longer now.
That’s the theory – what about the reality? If their current sleep pattern isn't working for you, read our top tips for getting your baby to sleep like…a baby? (sorry).
Want to make sure your baby is sleeping as safely as possible? Check out these tips from the Lullaby Trust.