Having your baby sleep through the night is an uncommon talent among new parents. As the parents of a newborn baby, you have to wake up to feed your baby every few hours, since they have tiny tummies and are only able to eat a small amount. Having your new baby sleep through the night can almost feel impossible, but with a few helpful tips you will have your baby sleeping through the night in no time.
Create a Relaxing Environment
When it’s time for bed your baby might still be in a playful mood. When putting your baby down to sleep, you have to create an environment that is perfect for your baby to settle down in. Try dimming or turning off the lights in their room, turn on some soft music or nature sounds, put on a baby light projector or even set up a diffuser with essential oils to relax your baby.
Make a Routine
You have to ensure that your baby is getting the right amount of sleep during the daytime, to prepare your baby to get the right amount of sleep at night. Unfortunately, newborns don’t know the difference between night and day at this early stage, so creating a routine will help them get adjusted. Start by waking up your baby around the same time every morning, feed them breakfast and get your day started. When it’s time for a nap, put your baby to sleep in a relaxing environment designed for sleeping and let them sleep for an hour or two. Make sure not to let your baby sleep too long because then they won’t sleep when it’s time for bed. After naptime you can enjoy a snack, go for a walk or have playtime with your baby. Whatever you do, stick to a schedule or routine.
Be Patient
Babies may need some assistance with falling asleep. It takes some time to get your baby adjusted to a normal sleep routine at a young age. When it’s time for a nap or to go to bed, try rocking your baby in your arms and singing to them. The sound of mom’s voice and the motion of rocking, will surely put your little one to sleep. You can also try a car ride around your neighborhood or even a stroll through a local park.
Start weaning your baby to occasional night feedings
When your baby’s doctor said that you could eliminate night feedings, but you’re not sure how to stop? Try to reduce night feedings gradually, until your baby is comfortable without having one. When your baby wakes up in the middle of the night, feed your baby as normally would. When your baby gets up for the second feeding, standby to see if your baby will settle back down on their own. If your baby needs help falling back to sleep, try by rubbing their back to soothe them without feeding. If your baby wakes up during the night due to a wet diaper, try using a natural baby diaper to help your baby get a good night’s sleep.
