Tips for getting your baby to sleep longer stretches at night
Katie Newby | Jan 2, 2023
Photographer: Garrett Jackson
Are you feeling exhausted from being awakened by your little one every few hours each night? It's completely normal for babies to wake up frequently during the night, but as a parent, it can be tiring. If you're struggling to get your baby to sleep through the night, you're not alone! Here are a few tips that might help:
Establish a bedtime routine: One of the most important things you can do to help your baby sleep longer stretches is to establish a consistent bedtime routine. This can include feeding, calming activities, and winding down for sleep. When your baby knows what to expect before bed, it can help them feel more comfortable and secure, which can lead to better sleep.
Swaddle your baby: Swaddling can be a great way to help your baby sleep more soundly. When babies are wrapped in a light blanket, it can eliminate involuntary reflex movements that might wake them up. Just make sure to follow safe swaddling guidelines to ensure that your baby is comfortable and not at risk of overheating.
Keep the nursery dark and quiet: Newborns and infants are particularly sensitive to light and noise, so it's important to create a dark and quiet environment in the nursery. You can use blackout curtains or a sleep shade to block out light, and a white noise machine or app can be helpful for drowning out any external noises that might disturb your baby's sleep.
Practice a slower-paced feeding: When it comes to feeding, it's important to take your time and allow your baby to eat at their own pace. This can help prevent overfeeding, which can lead to gas and discomfort that might wake your baby up at night. Holding your baby upright for at least 20 minutes after a feeding allows for proper digestion and helps prevent gas.
By following these tips, you can help your baby get the rest they need to grow and develop. Remember to be patient, as it can take time for your baby to adjust to a new sleep schedule. And don't be afraid to ask for help if you're feeling overwhelmed – there are plenty of resources available to support you on your journey to better sleep for both you and your little one.
If you're trying to get your baby to sleep through the night and feeling drained with the whole process, my gentle sleep coaching services may be able to help. With my background as a postpartum doula, I can create a personalized sleep plan for your family and cheer you on as you work to put it into action!