Sleep like a baby!
The phrase ‘sleeping like a baby’ is often used to describe a long, deep, peaceful sleep. It’s certainly not a phrase I would use to describe the actual sleep of a real baby.
Understanding baby sleep and learning about your baby’s unique sleep patterns can help you set schedules, anticipate when it’s time for a nap, and work out why your baby is crying. Then you’re speaking baby’s language!
The amount of time your baby spends sleeping will vary from day to day and will change as they get older. The chart below provides an idea of how long your baby’s sleep cycles may last, the average amount of time baby will sleep in a 24-hour period, and how many naps are typically needed.
|
Age |
Hours of Sleep in 24-Hour Period |
Hours of Sleep per Night |
Daytime/Naptime Hours |
|
Newborn |
16 to 20 hours in the first 4 to 6 weeks; then 14 to 17 hours |
Hours are equally divided between day and night |
Sleep occurs in about 2 to 3 hour blocks for breastfed babies and 3 to 4hour blocks for bottle-fed babies |
|
3 to 6 Months Old |
14 hours |
8 to 9 hours with interruption for feedings |
3 naps lasting about 2 hours each |
|
6 to 12 Months Old |
14 hours |
8 to 9 hours without interruption if well-fed |
2 or 3 naps lasting from 30 minutes to 2 hours each |
|
12+ Months Old |
12 to 14 hours |
10 hours |
1 or 2 naps, total of 2 to 3 hours |
Every baby is unique and the table is merely a guide. Speak to your maternal health nurse or healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions regarding sleep.
Key points to remember:
- At 2-3 months old, your baby may begin developing more regular sleep patterns enabling them to sleep longer at night
- By the age of 3-4 months old, your baby may be ready to start learning the skill of self soothing, a critical component in their ability to learn to fall asleep independently
-
From 6-12 months most babies will be sleeping up to 10 hours per night.
Good sleep patterns are a key component of your baby’s growth and development. Understanding your baby’s sleep helps both you and your baby.This blog serves as a reminder that this stage won’t last forever.To really set the scene for some serious sleep, consider the Miracle Penguin, a combination of sounds, lights, aroma and humidification.Find it here: www.hushlittlebabe.com.au/collections/sleep-aidesThanks for reading!Linda @hushlittlebabe
