These are simple ways to make your new born feel comfortable.
Sleep is important for both you and your baby. But to a newborn, sleep is the brain’s main activity. Babies spend about half the time they’re asleep in the dream stage, called REM sleep. That stage is linked to brain activities, such as memory, nervous system function and self-control.
Developing a rhythm
Newborns sleep 12 or more hours a day but just an hour or two at a time. Babies born before their due date, called premature, may sleep more than babies born at term.
There may be no pattern at first. Babies wake up to eat and then fall back asleep. But after a couple weeks, babies will be able to stay awake longer, and then sleep for a longer time. A more regular sleep schedule comes with brain and nervous system growth and being able to go longer between feedings.
After a few months many babies are on a regular three-times-a-day nap schedule and sleeping for longer periods at night.
For caregivers, the age-old advice is “sleep when your baby sleeps. ” While it’s almost a cliche and sometimes impossible, getting enough sleep is as important for you as it is for your baby.
In these first few months, caregivers often report that they are exhausted. Tired caregivers can find it hard to focus, remember details or see solutions to issues.
Until you get into a new rhythm with your baby, it might help to set aside anything that doesn’t have to be done. That way you have a better chance of getting the sleep you need.
Every baby is different. But by age 3 to 4 months, many babies sleep at least five hours at a time. Babies this age should be sleeping around 12 to 16 hours a day including naps. And at some point during a baby’s first year, babies will start sleeping for about 10 hours each night.
Have your baby sleep in your room
Experts say it’s best to have your baby sleep in the room with you. But babies should still sleep in a crib, bassinet or other structure designed for infants.
Adult beds are risky for infants. A baby can become trapped and suffocate in the normal spaces of a bed, including in bedding. Babies can become trapped between headboard slats, or the mattress and bed frame or wall.
A baby also can suffocate if a sleeping parent accidentally rolls over and covers the baby’s nose and mouth.
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