Sleep — or the lack of it — is one of the biggest challenges of new parenthood. Understanding your baby's sleep patterns and knowing how to gently encourage healthy habits can make a world of difference for the whole family.
How Much Sleep Does My Baby Need?
- Newborn (0–3 months): 14–17 hours per day, in short stretches of 2–4 hours
- 3–6 months: 12–16 hours, with longer nighttime stretches beginning to emerge
- 6–12 months: 12–16 hours, typically 2 naps per day
- 1–2 years: 11–14 hours, usually 1 nap per day
Understanding Sleep Cues
Watch for signs your baby is tired: rubbing eyes, yawning, staring blankly, becoming fussy or clingy. Putting baby down at the first signs of tiredness — before they become overtired — makes settling much easier.
Building a Sleep Routine
A consistent bedtime routine signals to your baby that sleep is coming. A simple routine might include: bath, feed, gentle song or story, and into the cot. Consistency is key — try to do it at the same time each evening.
Safe Sleep Guidelines
- Always place baby on their back to sleep
- Use a firm, flat mattress with a fitted sheet
- Keep the cot clear of pillows, duvets, bumpers, and toys
- Room temperature should be 16–20°C
- Baby should sleep in your room for the first 6 months
Tracking Sleep
Many parents find it helpful to track sleep using a simple notebook or app. Note when baby wakes, feeds, and sleeps — patterns often emerge after a few days that can help you anticipate needs and plan your day.
Night Wakings Are Normal
Frequent night waking is completely normal in the first months. Babies have shorter sleep cycles than adults and often need help transitioning between them. This does get easier — be patient with yourself and your baby.