During the first few weeks of your baby’s life his tiny stomach can only hold enough food to last 2-4 hours. During these first few weeks there is no way to escape round-the-clock wakings and feedings. However, many infants will begin sleeping for 7-8 hours during the night at about 3 months. But, keep in mind, different babies have different sleep needs.
If your baby is not sleeping through the night by the age of three months there are a few things you can do to help.
- Keep your baby awake longer during the afternoon and early evening. Play actively and allow your baby to remain in the room with the rest of the family. This will lessen the chances that your baby will drift off to sleep too early.
- Make sure your baby takes a full feeding before bed so that she does not wake up hungry in the middle of the night.
- Don’t hurry to the baby’s side every time you hear a whimper. Babies cycle between light and deep sleep throughout the night. Give your baby a chance to settle back down without your help.
- When your baby does wake at night keep activity to a minimum. Do not play or talk with your infant and use just enough light to manage.
- If your baby is waking up very early in the morning try putting dark shades on the windows to keep the morning sun out.
- Keep a regular bed-time routine. Give a warm bath, feed and sing or rock your baby at the same time each night. This establishes a pattern for easier bedtime with fewer challanges later on.
Babies do not have regular sleep cycles until they are about 6 months of age and then it is still not unusual for infants to get their days and nights mixed up. NEVER give your baby any type of drug to induce sleep!!! There is NO safe sleep aid for infants. Be patient and remember that as your baby grows you will get more sleep.
