Getting your baby to sleep through the night is one of those milestones that can feel like a distant dream. While every baby is different, there are a few strategies that can help set the stage for longer, more restful nights. Here are 10 tips to help you (and your little one) sleep better!
Establish a Consistent Bedtime Routine
Babies thrive on routine, and a consistent bedtime routine can work wonders. Whether it’s a warm bath, a gentle massage, or reading a short story, doing the same things every night will signal to your baby that it’s time to wind down. Over time, they’ll start associating these actions with sleep, making it easier for them to settle in.
Create a Calm and Cozy Sleep Environment
A calm, quiet, and dark room helps signal to your baby that it’s sleep time. Consider using blackout curtains, a white noise machine, or a nightlight to create the perfect environment. Make sure the temperature is comfortable—ideally between 68–72°F (20-22°C)—so your baby doesn’t wake up due to being too hot or cold.
Set a Regular Sleep Schedule
Babies love consistency, so try to put your baby to sleep at the same time every night. This helps regulate their internal clock and can make bedtime easier as they get used to a routine. Keeping consistent wake times during the day can also help ensure they’re ready for sleep at night.
Avoid Overstimulation Before Bedtime
While it’s tempting to play and engage with your baby, try to avoid overactive play just before bedtime. High-energy activities can make it harder for your baby to wind down. Instead, focus on calming activities like cuddling or soft singing to help them relax before bedtime.
Ensure Proper Daytime Naps
Believe it or not, naps during the day can impact nighttime sleep. Babies who are overtired may have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep at night. Make sure your baby is getting the appropriate number of naps for their age—usually 2-3 naps during the day—and avoid letting them sleep too close to bedtime.
Offer a Dream Feed
A dream feed is when you offer your baby a feeding while they are still asleep, usually around 10-11 p.m. This can help top them off before they settle into a longer sleep stretch. It may help reduce the number of nighttime wake-ups, as your baby stays fuller for longer.
Put Baby Down Drowsy But Awake
It can be tempting to rock your baby to sleep in your arms, but putting your baby down when they’re drowsy but still awake teaches them to fall asleep on their own. This encourages self-soothing, which is an important skill for babies to develop. It may take time, but with consistency, they’ll get the hang of it.
Be Consistent with Nighttime Feedings
If your baby is still waking for nighttime feedings, try to keep things calm and consistent. Keep the lights low, avoid talking or playing, and be as quiet as possible. This helps your baby understand that nighttime is for sleeping, not playtime.
Avoid Picking Baby Up Immediately
When your baby stirs or cries during the night, give them a few minutes to see if they can settle themselves back to sleep. Sometimes, babies will cry out for a brief moment but then fall back asleep on their own. By waiting a bit, you can help your baby learn to self-soothe without rushing in every time.
Be Patient and Flexible
It’s important to remember that every baby is different, and they’ll reach the milestone of sleeping through the night in their own time. If your baby isn’t sleeping through the night yet, don’t stress! Be patient, stay consistent with your routine, and adjust as needed. The more relaxed you are, the more likely your baby will pick up on your calm energy.
Getting your baby to sleep through the night is a gradual process, but with these tips, you’re on the right path to creating better sleep habits for both of you. You’ve got this—good sleep is on the way!
