Establishing a sleep schedule for your newborn can seem like an impossible task. In the first few weeks, babies sleep erratically and wake frequently for feedings. However, understanding their natural rhythms can help you gently guide them towards a more predictable routine.
Understanding Newborn Sleep Cycles
Unlike adults, newborns spend a significant amount of time in active (REM) sleep. This is essential for their rapid brain development but means they wake more easily.
The key to newborn sleep is not strict scheduling, but rather recognizing and responding to your baby's sleep cues before they become overtired.
Common Sleep Cues
- Yawning or rubbing eyes
- Looking away from stimulation
- Fussiness or irritability
Join the conversation
Get our best parenting strategies and expert interviews delivered straight to your inbox every week.