The first several months of a baby’s life is truly amazing, but let’s be honest-it can also be exhausting. From middle of the night feedings to early morning diaper changes, getting adequate sleep can be challenging. Sleep is not only essential for your baby, but the lack of sleep can also affect you as a parent. Sometimes it probably feels like getting your baby to sleep through the night may be an impossible task, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some helpful tips to help your baby sleep through the night!
Pay Attention to your Baby’s Sleep Cues
Every baby is different so figuring out how your baby acts when he or she is tired can help you determine an appropriate bedtime. Typically, babies who are tired may act fussy, rub their eyes or yawn. Paying attention to when your baby is drowsy is crucial in establishing a bedtime that can result in longer stretches of sleep.
Establish a Bedtime Routine
A consistent bedtime routine can be incredibly helpful for your baby. For example, the routine could begin with a warm bath followed by a bedtime story or lullaby. Establishing a regular bedtime routine can help signal to your baby that it's time to wind down and fall asleep.
Stick to a Consistent Sleep Schedule
Try and put your baby down for naps and bedtime at the same time every day so that it becomes part of their daily routine. Over time, your baby will get used to a consistent sleep schedule making it easier to not only fall asleep but stay asleep. Make sure to also wake your little one up after naps and in the morning at the same time so that your baby gets used to the routine.
Provide a Calm Sleep Environment
Creating a calm and soothing environment can help your baby feel more relaxed and ready for sleep. Make sure that the room is quiet, dark and is set at a comfortable temperature. Babies also tend to fall asleep faster when they are tightly swaddled. You can check out either your local infant boutique clothing store or shop online for various styles of swaddle blankets.
Be Patient
Patience is not only a virtue but is key in making sure that you don’t stress about lack of sleep for both you and your baby. It’s easy to feel discouraged when you hear about your neighbor’s sister’s baby who started sleeping through the night at 2 months old. Try not to compare your baby with others and remember that helping your baby sleep through the night is a process and it could take some time before you see results.
At Simply Blessed Kids we understand that helping your baby sleep through the night can be challenging but with consistency and patience, it's totally possible. By paying attention to your baby’s sleep cues, establishing a consistent bedtime routine, sticking to a sleep schedule, providing a calm sleep environment and with a little bit of patience, you can help your baby get the restful sleep they need. Need some more ideas? Shop online or visit our store for infant boutique clothing and baby items including soothers and swaddle blankets today!