One of the biggest challenges for new parents is understanding newborn sleep. It can feel random and unpredictable, but you can gently guide your baby toward a more consistent routine. Here are some tips to help establish peaceful sleep from day one.
Newborns sleep a lot — about 16–17 hours a day — but only for short periods. Don’t expect them to sleep through the night. Their sleep cycles are shorter and they need to wake frequently to eat.
This is the most important rule. Always place your baby on their back on a firm mattress in a crib free of pillows, blankets, or stuffed animals. Keep the room at a comfortable temperature and consider using a firm swaddle to keep them cozy.
Your baby will give signs when they’re tired. Look for yawning, rubbing their eyes, or fussiness. Putting them down before they become overtired is key to smoother sleep transitions.
Even though newborns don’t understand day and night, a routine helps them associate actions with sleep. It could include:
During the day, keep the room bright, play, and interact. At night, use dim lighting, speak softly, and minimize stimulation. This helps the baby learn the difference between day and night.
By being consistent and patient, you’ll help your baby develop healthy sleep habits. Remember, every baby is different. Nate’s Baby Shop has everything you need for a cozy and safe sleep setup, from swaddles to cribs.