How to Get Your Baby to Sleep Through the Night
Now that you know about the sleeping patterns of babies, it is time that you plan out the baby's nighttime sleep. Follow the tips below for getting baby to sleep through the night.
Daytime Sleep
For the baby to sleep through the night it is essential that it gets enough sleep and rest during the day. Encourage the baby to indulge in short naps during the day, instead of sleeping at a stretch. Also ensure that she is active for at least some time during the day.
Sleep Settings
You must make all arrangements for the baby to sleep comfortably and safely in her crib. Place a soft comforter or baby blanket, a soft toy or any other object that your baby loves. This will help the baby feel secure even if she happens to wake up all of a sudden in the night.
Bedtime Routine
Establishing a bedtime routine and sleep time is essential as this is what signals the baby that it is time to sleep. Routines like reading or singing a lullaby or bathing the baby will help her relax and prepare for sleep.
Importance of the Crib
Once she is drowsy or half awake, place her on her back in the baby crib. This will establish the fact that this is where she is going to be sleeping. She may cry for a few minutes, during this time do not lift her off the crib, just soothe her gently and reassure her that you are around. Dim the lights and shut off all the sounds surrounding the room. Read more on getting baby to sleep in crib.
Awakening in the Night
If the baby happens to wake up after a few hours, do not talk or play with her. Nurse, change her diaper or do whatever required and soothe her back to sleep. This will enforce the fact that the sleeping time is still on and she needs to drift back to sleep.
It would do you good to check up on information in breathing problems in infants, of course, if it is such a case, do not attempt to solve it on your own.
Initially, it would be a little difficult for getting baby to sleep through the night as you and the baby need to get used to the routine. You will notice that the frequency of the baby waking up in the night reduces gradually and both of you would be able to sleep peacefully through the night. If this does not happen even after a few weeks, your baby might be waking up due to a medical problem, consult a physician without further delay.