There isn’t one in the early days and weeks, babies simply sleep when they are tired.
Avoid following advice books which advise on set routines because all babies are different
just like adults; some need more sleep, some are more laid back, some have their eyes open all day long, some need to be held all the time and others not so much.
If you try to fit your baby into a rigid routine at the new-born stage and they don’t conform to it, you will only end up getting frustrated with your baby.
Your baby’s sleep will mainly revolve around being fed and having a full tummy.
Enjoy the fact that you don’t need to worry or think about a routine at the moment.
The best thing to do is to look for natural rhythms and see if you can identify your baby’s unique signs of tiredness
Get to know your baby’s sleep signals and put them down for a nap if you spot any of these signals.
Early signals
· Lull in movement
· Quietening down
· Losing interest in objects/looking away
· A ‘glazed look’
· Yawning
Late signs of tiredness
· Back arching
· Asking for comfort through feeding or not wanting to be put down
· Rubbing eyes
· Pulling up their knees
· Vigorous wriggling
· Crying or being inconsolable
· Pulling their ears
· Rubbing face on parent’s chest/shoulder
Some babies only show 1 or 2 early signs of tiredness before quickly becoming over tired and others have a higher tolerance and can cope with more time before becoming over tired. Some babies show no early signs and go from 0-60 in seconds!
Most newborns can handle 1-2 hours awake time. If they are over tired or over stimulated it will be harder for them to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Arriving into this world after having spent 9 months in a small dark, cozy space surrounded by
the constant sound of your heart beat can be quite frightening! So as much as possible try to mimic the womb environment to help them feel safe, secure and content.
Swaddling
They were held tightly in the womb so many babies feel safe and secure when they are swaddled. Stop this as soon as they can roll or if it is very hot weather.
Warmth
They have been used to being in a warm environment so try to make sure their sleep environment is between 16 and 20 degrees Celsius. Some people suggest putting a hot water bottle in their cot before they go down for a nap (make sure you remove it before you place them in there). If you have the time and foresight to do this, hats off to you!
White Noise
Constant background noise will block out any noises which may make it hard for your baby to stay a sleep.
Warmth
They have been used to being in a warm environment so try to make sure their sleep environment is between 16 and 20 degrees Celsius. Some people suggest putting a hot water bottle in their cot before they go down for a nap (make sure you remove it before you place them in there). If you have the time and foresight to do this, hats off to you!
Post written by Sarah Patel at www.teachtosleep.co.uk