How Should Baby Sleep Patterns Be? Definitive Solutions & Expert Advice
Establishing a sleep pattern in babies is vital for both your baby's development and your own rest. While a newborn's sleep pattern is completely different, it's expected to start settling down as the months progress. However, this process can vary for each baby and requires patience. In this article, we'll guide you on how baby sleep patterns should be, what to pay attention to, and what you can do to establish a sleep routine.
Why Are Baby Sleep Patterns Important?
Sleep is a basic need for babies' physical and mental development. During sleep, growth hormone is secreted, the immune system is strengthened, and the brain processes information learned during the day. Sufficient and regular sleep helps babies to be happier, calmer, and healthier. Also, parents of babies with regular sleep routines are more rested and energetic, which positively affects the parent-child relationship.
Sleep Needs of Babies by Age
Babies' sleep needs vary with age. Here are the average sleep durations for babies by age:
- Newborn (0-3 months): Average of 14-17 hours of sleep per day
- 3-6 months: Average of 14-15 hours of sleep per day
- 6-12 months: Average of 13-14 hours of sleep per day
- 12-18 months: Average of 13 hours of sleep per day
These times are averages, and each baby's needs may be different. As long as your baby doesn't show signs of sleeplessness and is happy during the day, these times can be considered normal.
Methods for Establishing Baby Sleep Patterns
There are many different methods for establishing sleep patterns in babies. Here are some of the most effective methods:
1. Creating a Routine
Babies love routines. Sleeping and waking up at the same time every day, doing similar activities before sleep (e.g., bathing, reading a story, singing a lullaby), helps your baby's sleep pattern to settle down. Routines allow your baby's body to understand that it's time for sleep.
2. Regulating the Sleep Environment
It is important for babies' sleep environment to be dark, quiet, and cool. The ideal room temperature is recommended to be between 20-22 degrees Celsius. Also, make sure your baby's bed is safe and comfortable. Avoid having pillows, blankets, or toys in the baby's bed, as these can pose a choking hazard.
3. Following Sleep Signals
Babies give various signals when they need to sleep. These signals can be: rubbing their eyes, yawning, being fussy, not showing interest. By following your baby's signals, you can put him/her to bed without missing the sleep time. Missing sleep signals can cause your baby to become overtired and make it difficult to fall asleep.
4. Teaching to Fall Asleep on Their Own
Learning to fall asleep on their own is important for the sleep pattern to settle down. You can give your baby the opportunity to fall asleep on his/her own by putting him/her in bed sleepy but awake. It is important to be patient in this process and be resistant to your baby's crying. [You can get information about the Ferber method]
5. Adjusting the Feeding Schedule
It is difficult for babies to sleep on an empty stomach. Especially feeding your baby before night sleep can help him/her sleep longer. However, breastfeeding or giving formula while falling asleep can create a sleep habit. Therefore, be careful to feed your baby before falling asleep.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Should Sleep Training Start in Babies?
Sleep training in babies can usually start in the 4-6 month period. However, since each baby's development rate is different, it's important to make sure your baby is ready. It is recommended to consult your doctor before starting sleep training.
What to Do with a Baby Who Wakes Up Frequently at Night?
Try to understand why your baby wakes up frequently at night. Reasons such as hunger, gas pain, teething, or ambient temperature can interrupt sleep. After meeting your baby's needs, you can apply soothing methods to help him/her fall asleep again (e.g., rocking gently, singing a lullaby).
What is Sleep Regression in Babies?
Sleep regression in babies is when a baby who has been sleeping regularly suddenly has a disrupted sleep pattern. This usually occurs due to reasons such as growth spurts, developmental milestones, or illness. Sleep regression is a temporary situation, and you can overcome this period by patiently meeting your baby's needs. [Click for more information about sleep regression]
Establishing a sleep pattern in babies is a process that requires time and patience. Remember that every baby is different and develops at its own pace. By trying to understand your baby's needs, you can create a sleep pattern that suits him/her. [Contact a sleep specialist]