Babies and newborns need healthy sleep schedules. Any new parent knows that it can be difficult to get onto a sleep schedule with a baby, but there are tips that will help to soothe a baby to sleep and get her used to a nap and nighttime routine.
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Naps
Babies tend to take two to three naps after the first two to three months. Prior to this, they usually sleep whenever they get tired. After those two to three months, it is up to the parents to set a good routine for naps. This usually entails feeding the baby, changing the baby, and laying him down to sleep. Doing this at the same time every day will help to establish a nap routine that babies can easily stick to.
Soothers
Some newborns and older babies need soothing items to help them get to sleep. These soothers will help the baby to stick to a routine. This may include a favorite stuffed animal or blanket or it may be a visual or auditory soother. Some babies need to be rocked to sleep. Others respond well to mobiles hung above their cribs. These may move and play music or simply move. Some babies respond well to music or white noise. This helps to break up all the background noises in the house. Many items, such as bouncy seats and bassinets, now come with a vibration option that has proven to help lull babies to sleep, much like a car ride does. One or more of these soothers may work with your baby.
Bedtime
Bedtime in the evening is something that may seem elusive to newborns and new parents. It can take several months before a baby is ready to sleep for any length of time through the night. It can help to set a routine for the baby so that she understands it is time for sleep. A nighttime routine usually has several steps. A warm bath is always a great way to calm a baby down before it is time to sleep for the night. Then massage the baby with a lotion. This action is also calming. Once finished, you will likely want to feed the baby a final time before sleep. Read the baby a book, sing a lullaby, or rock the baby before putting her to bed in her crib. It may take several nights of trying, but these techniques should help build a healthy sleep routine for your baby.
