A Guide to Normal Infant Sleep and Safety for Expecting Parents

Congratulations! You’re embarking on one of life’s most incredible journeys – parenthood. As you eagerly await the arrival of your little one, it’s essential to prepare yourself for the reality of sleepless nights that often come hand in hand with the joys of new parenthood. Understanding normal infant sleep patterns and prioritising sleep safety is crucial for your baby’s well-being and your own peace of mind.

Normal Infant Sleep

What is normal infant sleep? Infants have unique sleep patterns that may seem perplexing at first. But rest assured, it’s entirely normal for babies to wake frequently during the night, as their tiny tummies require regular feeding. Newborns typically sleep for 14-17 hours a day, often in short bursts of 2-3 hours at a time. Over time, their sleep patterns will gradually evolve, with longer stretches of sleep emerging as they grow.

Sleep Safety Tips from the Lullaby Trust

The Lullaby Trust provides invaluable guidance to ensure your baby sleeps safely:

1. Always place your baby on their back to sleep, for both naps and nighttime sleep.
2. Share your room with your baby for the first six months, but avoid bed-sharing if you or your partner smoke, have consumed alcohol, or if you feel excessively tired.
3. Keep your baby’s sleep environment clear of pillows, blankets, toys, and any loose bedding.
4. Ensure your baby’s cot meets current safety standards and has a firm, flat and waterproof mattress.
5. Maintain a comfortable room temperature, ideally between 16-20°C, to prevent overheating.
6. Consider using a baby sleeping bag or swaddle to keep your little one snug without the risk of loose bedding.
7. Avoid smoking, alcohol, or drug use during pregnancy and after birth, as these increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
8. Breastfeeding, if possible, has been shown to greatly reduce the risk of SIDS.
9. Ensure your baby’s head remains uncovered during sleep.

Coping with Less Sleep

1. Prioritise sleep – let go of non-essential tasks and focus on getting as much rest as possible.
2. Share the load – enlist the help of your partner, family, or friends to take turns caring for your baby during the night.
3. Create a bedtime routine – establishing a consistent bedtime routine can help signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep.
4. Accept help – don’t be afraid to accept offers of support from loved ones, whether it’s a home-cooked meal or an hour of babysitting.
5. Stay hydrated and nourished – fuel your body with nutritious foods and plenty of water to help combat fatigue.
6. Lower your expectations – embrace the chaos of parenthood and let go of the idea of perfection.
7. Seek support – connect with other parents going through similar experiences, either in person or online.
8. Practice self-compassion – be kind to yourself and remember that it’s okay to feel tired and overwhelmed at times.
9. If you can rest or nap when your baby naps – forget about chores and embrace rest whenever you can.
10. Remember, this phase is temporary – while it may feel never-ending, the sleepless nights will eventually pass, and you’ll emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before.

You can learn more about infant sleep and find support at BASIS – Baby Sleep Info Source. They have articles and research about normal infant sleep patterns and development and so much more to offer. Check out their site!

As you prepare to welcome your little bundle of joy into the world, keep these tips in mind to navigate the early days of parenthood with confidence and grace. Cherish the precious moments with your newborn, and remember that a well-rested parent is better equipped to care for their baby. Wishing you a smooth transition into parenthood and many restful nights ahead!