Sleep

Sleep. Some babies are good at it, others not so good. Here are a few helpful ideas that may work for you and your baby.

• Most parents like to get into a routine of feed, play and sleep as soon as possible. Be a little flexible with the routine in the first weeks.

• Look for signs that your baby is tired. Avoid letting your baby become overtired before trying to put them down to sleep as this usually leads to poor quality sleep.

• Swaddling often has the result of calming baby and making them feel warm and secure. It can help prevent a baby from throwing their arms up and startling themselves. (Snug & Tug, Snugglewrap). Swaddling also becomes a cue for baby that it is time for sleep.

• Check that the temperature of the room is correct and there is good ventilation. Be sure that baby has safe sleeping conditions.

Getting baby off to sleep

• It is important that you put baby down for their sleep while they are awake.  

• Let them cry. This can be hard so use a watch so you can monitor how long bay has been crying before you go back into their room to settle them.

• Whatever settling/sleep method you are using it is important all parents/caregivers are consistent.