Sleep is fundamental to the well being of both parents and babies. If you start by putting healthy sleep habits into place, you will increase your chances of getting into a good sleep routine as soon as possible.
See the list below for good sleep habits for newborn babies. Remember that ‘sleep is sleep’ and it doesn’t matter what time of the day or night it is – we all need the same sleep cues.
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Make sure your baby is not hungry at any point throughout the day.
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Make sure your baby is not overtired throughout the day.
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Swaddle your baby
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Relax your baby in a warm, cosy, dark room. Help them block out the world by removing bright lights, loud noises or distractions
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Always place your baby on his back when putting him to bed.
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Create a regular sleep schedule that you follow consistently. Consistency is the name of the game.
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Make sure your baby always goes to sleep in the same place. Pick a spot and always put your baby to sleep there. (If it means that you have to be at home for every sleep time, so be it. You’ll be happier for it in the long run.)
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Offer a dummy at bedtime, and only at bedtime. Use it as a sleep cue to soothe themselves (not as a tool to keep your baby quiet).
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Use independence-building sleep cues like white noise and dummies. Don’t use bed toys with lights or anything that stimulates.
But most of all take as many photos and videos as you can because this time passes so quickly! As a mum of a nearly 9 year old I can tell you you will miss the newborn baby stage so much!! Be kind to yourself, don't put to much on your to-do-list, and remember if you ever need a cuppa and a chat to talk all things baby you know where I am. After all calm mummy = calm baby.