Get Peace of Mind for Your Newborn's Sleep
Welcoming a newborn into the world can be an overwhelming experience for any new parent. In addition to the joy and excitement that comes with having a new family member, the responsibility of caring for the needs of a little one can sometimes bring anxiety and stress as well.
One of the critical aspects of taking care of a newborn is ensuring that they are getting adequate rest. Sleep is essential for a newborn's growth and development, and as a parent, ensuring that your little one is getting enough rest can give you peace of mind. In this blog post, we'll share some tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics and our experienced doulas on what you can do to ensure that your newborn is getting quality sleep.
1. Choose the right sleep environment
The environment in which your baby sleeps is crucial for their safety and comfort. Infants should always sleep on their backs on a firm and flat surface. Avoid using soft bedding like blankets or pillows that could suffocate your baby. Additionally, crib bumpers have been linked to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and should be avoided at all costs.
2. Dress your baby for sleep
Dressing your newborn for sleep can be challenging, but it's crucial that you make sure your baby is at the right temperature. The ideal temperature for your home with your little one is in the 68-72 degree range. When it's warm inside, choose lightweight clothing, and when it's colder outside, add layers. Loose blankets are not recommended as they can cover your baby's face and cause suffocation. Instead, use a sleep sack, which is a wearable blanket that keeps your baby warm while ensuring that they are safe. We love a traditional swaddle for babies that are not rolling onto their tummies yet. They are affordable and once you get the hang of it, quick and easy. If you find yourself struggling with a traditional swaddle, a sleep sack is another easy, affordable option. Check out products like This one. It gives the benefit of a cute blanket without any of the danger. The Merlin Sleepsuit is another great after the 3 month mark.
3. Create a sleep routine
Establishing a bedtime routine is helpful in regulating your baby's sleep and making them feel safe and secure. You can introduce bedtime stories, lullabies or singing softly, cozy time with a lovey, or a warm bath. Choose a suitable time for bedtime, and be consistent about it. Babies thrive on routines, and your little one will eventually learn to wind-down naturally.
4. Keep your baby close in the early days
In the early days with your newborn, it's comforting to have them close. Consider keeping the crib in the same room as you for the first six months of your baby's life. This prevents separation anxiety and ensures that you can quickly attend to your baby's needs like feeding or diaper changes. You could use a bedside sleeper, where you place the baby's crib next to your bed, enabling you to have your area yet still close at hand.
5. Be calm and patient
Every baby is different when it comes to sleep patterns. Some sleep more soundly from birth, while others are easily disturbed, and that's okay. Continuous feeding or changes and holding your baby are moments that aid bonding, rest assured, and know you can establish routines as they grow. Being calm and patient can help you cope with any sleep disturbances, and over time both you and your baby will adjust to each other's needs.
All this is to say, Adequate sleep is essential for the healthy development of your newborn. The tips shared here will help you create a safe and comfortable sleeping environment for your baby while giving you peace of mind. Remember, your baby's sleep patterns will change often, and with time, your little one will settle into a routine that works for everyone. By choosing the right sleep environment, dressing your baby appropriately, creating a sleep routine, keeping your baby close, and being calm and patient, you are well on your way to establishing healthy sleep habits that will benefit the whole family.
