Getting your baby to sleep can feel like an impossible task. But sleep experts say there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.
Here’s what they recommend to help parents navigate the world of infant sleep.
Most babies don’t sleep through the night
Many parents worry when their baby doesn’t sleep for long stretches, but research shows that most infants don’t sleep through the night consistently.
A study tracking infant sleep over 13 days found that only 3 out of 44 babies slept for six uninterrupted hours each night.
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Sleep patterns vary widely between infants
There’s no universal standard for infant sleep. While some babies may sleep for long periods, others wake frequently, and this variability is completely normal.
Experts advise parents not to stress over comparisons with other babies.
Total sleep hours matter more than uninterrupted sleep
Instead of focusing on whether a baby sleeps through the night, experts suggest looking at total sleep across 24 hours.
While recommendations suggest 12 to 15 hours, infants may sleep anywhere from 10 to 18 hours depending on individual needs.
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Naps are crucial for cognitive development
Studies show that naps help infants retain new information.
In one study, babies who napped for at least 30 minutes after learning something new remembered it better the next day than those who skipped their nap.
Establishing a bedtime routine helps
A consistent bedtime routine – such as singing, taking a bath, or reading – helps infants develop emotional and behavioral regulation.
Experts recommend keeping routines simple, predictable, and starting them early.
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Put the babies to bed drowsy
Experts suggest placing infants in their crib when they are drowsy but still awake.
This helps them learn to fall asleep independently, making bedtime smoother in the long run.
Sleep tracking apps can be useful
Many parents use apps to monitor their baby’s sleep patterns.
While not all sleep apps are scientifically tested, they can help parents predict when their baby will be ready for a nap.
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Bedsharing increases risks but remains common
Sleeping in the same bed as an infant, or bedsharing, can raise the risk of suffocation and sudden unexpected infant death syndrome.
Despite this, many parents still choose to bedshare for comfort or breastfeeding convenience.
Safe sleep practices are essential
For those who choose to bedshare, experts recommend safety measures such as using a firm mattress, keeping pillows and stuffed animals away, and ensuring the baby sleeps on their back.
Parents should trust their instincts
While expert advice can be helpful, many specialists stress the importance of listening to parental instincts.
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Feeling confident in responding to a baby’s needs is just as valuable as following research-based guidelines.
This article is based on information from National Geographic.