How Much Should a 5-Week-Old Baby Sleep?

After five weeks, newborn babies may start to sleep for longer periods of time.

Four to Six Hours

Newborn babies sleep up to 16 hours a day, but often only one to two hours at a time. According to the Baby Center website, by the time she is 5 or 6 weeks old, she may begin to sleep for longer periods, up to four to six hours.

Longer Sleep Periods

Babies sleep longer as their nervous system matures and they can go longer between feedings. According to the Mayo Clinic, at 3 months old, many babies are sleeping five hours or longer in a stretch.

Bottom Line

Babies develop at different rates. While there are normal ranges, not all babies follow these guidelines. Talk with the baby's pediatrician if you have questions or concerns about how much or how little he is sleeping.

References

• Baby Center: Your 5-Week-Old's Development
• Mayo Clinic: Help Your Baby Sleep Through the Night
• Kids Health: Encouraging Your Newborn's Sleep