How to help your baby learn that night is for sleeping, with bright, busy days and dark, quiet nights.
In short
- She has to learn that night is different.
- Make days bright and nights dark.
- At night, feed, change and settle quietly.
During the day
Open the curtains. Play with her and talk to her. Do not worry about everyday noise while she naps. It is good for her to get used to some noise. Daytime naps follow the same rules as night sleep.
At night
- Keep the lights low.
- Talk only a little, in a quiet voice.
- Put her down as soon as she is fed and changed.
- Only change her nappy if she needs it.
- Do not play with her.
What to expect
She will learn gradually that night-time is for sleeping. Until then, she still needs feeds at night. Her tummy is tiny.
If she starts to fuss at night, she is probably ready for a feed.
As she grows, she needs fewer night feeds. From 3 to 6 months, some babies sleep 5 to 8 hours or longer at night. Not all babies do.
Keeping every sleep safe
Put her to sleep on her back, for every sleep, day and night. Use her own cot or Moses basket. Keep it in the same room as you for at least the first 6 months.
Use a firm, flat mattress. Keep the cot clear. No pillows, duvets, bumpers, loose blankets or soft toys.
Never fall asleep with her on a sofa or in an armchair. Keep her away from smoke. Do not let her get too hot. Keep the room between 16C and 20C.
