Newborn Sleep
Hello and congratulations on the arrival of your precious little one! I'm Natalie, the founder and owner of The Sleep Empire, a certified Baby and Toddler Sleep Consultant, Early Childhood Educator, Circle of Security Parenting Facilitator, and, most importantly, a mum. I understand the mix of excitement, anxiety, and anticipation that comes with the journey into parenthood.
At The Sleep Empire, I'm committed to helping you navigate the world of newborn sleep with compassion, science, and attachment-focused strategies. Sleep training for newborns doesn't have to involve the traditional 'cry it out' method. Instead, we can lay the foundation for positive, long-term sleep habits right from birth.
Introduction: Navigating the Fourth Trimester
The first three months, often referred to as the fourth trimester, can be a challenging adjustment for both babies and parents. The lack of a clear guide on newborn sleep can lead to decisions that inadvertently disrupt sleep patterns, affecting both your baby and you. Research indicates that sleep deprivation in new mothers is a significant contributor to postpartum depression. It's crucial to proactively manage your newborn's sleep to prevent reaching a point of exhaustion and despair.
Education is a key component of making informed choices for your baby's sleep, and that's precisely why I'm here to support you through this journey.
Basic Sleep Science and Habits: Creating a Safe Sleep Haven
Safety is a top priority, especially in the first year. Let’s set up our babies with the best outcome by giving them the safest sleep we can. Follow these four pillars to support your newborn’s sleep:
Always place your baby on their back for naps and overnight.
Maintain a smoke-free and drug-free environment.
Ensure a firm, clean, and flat mattress with no blankets, toys, or pillows in the cot.
Room-share with your baby for the first six months.
Understanding Your Baby's Sleep Cycle
Newborns cycle between active sleep, where they may seem awake, and quiet sleep, where they are still and deeply asleep. Knowing when to intervene and when to let them settle naturally is crucial for healthy sleep habits.
Establishing Healthy Sleep Patterns: Age-Appropriate Awake Windows
Follow age-appropriate awake windows to prevent overtiredness and support longer sleep cycles. Introducing a routine around 8 weeks can help your baby develop their own melatonin production, leading to more defined sleep cycles.
Creating a Soothing Bedtime Routine
A consistent bedtime routine aids in signaling to your baby that it's time to wind down. Incorporate calming activities like a warm bath, gentle massage, and soft lullabies.
The 5 S's for Settling Newborns
Harness the power of the 5 S's - Swaddling, Side Lying, Shushing, Swinging, and Sucking - to help your baby settle and find comfort without resorting to feeding.
Top 5 Tips for Newborns:
Follow age-appropriate awake windows.
Avoid over-tiredness and gas.
Utilize the 5 S's for settling.
Manage unexplained crying episodes with outdoor walks, skin-on-skin time, and white noise.
Understand the transition between active and quiet sleep.
Sleep Enrivonment Checklist:
Blockout blinds or curtains: Creating a dark environment will signal to your babies brain that it is sleep time. It also encourages the production of melatonin (the sleep hormone).
White noise machine: White noise helps break up the silence for your baby, which can be scary. White noise mimics the sounds in the womb, helping your child sleep for longer, while feeling secure.
Cot position: Positioning your babies cot behind the opening of the door ensures minimal light enters their sleep space when the door is opened. Position their cot away from windows, cords or electrical items in the room to reduce risk.
Temperature gauge: Being able to read the temperature of the room will enable you dress your baby appropriately for sleep. The ideal sleep temperature ranges from 19°C-22°C
Swaddle: A swaddle is the perfect way for your baby to sleep. It creates a close and comfortable environment for them. Pick the appropriate one for the temperature of their room.
Monitor: Being able to keep a close eye on your baby will help put your mind at ease and alert you when they need your assistance.
Stay away from:
Cot bumpers: These are a SIDS risk and should be removed. These can be used by your baby as a step to get out.
Mobiles: Rather hang mobiles over your change table, these can be a distraction when hung over the cot and a fall risk.
Decor: Remove any pictures, shelves or decor that is a fall risk.
Lights: Remember to turn all lights off when your baby is asleep. Leaving even a dim light on will effect their sleep and melatonin production.
References:
American Academy of Pediatrics - Safe Sleep Recommendations
