How to Get a Newborn to Sleep Longer

Getting a good night's sleep with a newborn in the house can be a challenging feat. Sleep during baby's first few months of life can be erratic and new parents often find themselves frazzled and frustrated. By six to eight weeks of age, most babies begin to sleep in shorter stretches during the day and longer periods at night. At this point, you can take measures to lengthen your baby's stretch of nighttime sleep. Keep in mind that a baby's brain takes three to six months to mature enough to sleep through the night.

Things You'll Need

  • Baby bathtub or sink
  • White noise machine
  • Swaddling blanket

Instructions

    • 1

      Look for signs that your baby is tired. Sleep begets sleep, so keeping your baby awake to tire them can cause overstimulation and make it harder for them to sleep. Common signs of sleepiness include eye rubbing, yawning and ear pulling.

    • 2

      Create a bedtime routine and stick with it. Consistency is important. As you discover things that work for your baby, whether it's reading a book before bed, singing a lullaby or cuddling in the rocking chair, be consistent in your routine.

    • 3

      Give your newborn a warm bath. Baths can be soothing and can signal to your child that it is time to prepare for sleep.

    • 4

      Make sure your baby has a dry diaper and is not hungry before trying to get them to sleep. Outside factors like hunger can prolong sleeplessness.

    • 5

      Swaddle your newborn to give them a safe and secure environment for sleep. Swaddling helps recreate the feel of being snug in the womb.

    • 6

      Use a white noise machine to help drown out household sounds that will keep your baby awake. Sound machines provide a dull background sound that soothes and relaxes babies.

    • 7

      Learn what your specific child needs and work with them individually. Every baby is different, so take cues from your newborn as to what works for them.

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