Understanding Your Baby’s Sleep: What Every New Parent Should Know

Infant Sleep is Not Adult Sleep

Young babies sleep differently than older babies and adults

Newborns sleep in shorter cycles, waking frequently to feed, which is essential for their growth and development. Their sleep is divided between active and quiet sleep, and they spend more time in lighter sleep stages than adults do. While this can be challenging, knowing that these patterns are normal can help you adjust your expectations and create a soothing environment that supports better sleep for both you and your baby. With patience and the right strategies, you can navigate this phase with more confidence and less stress.

What Active Sleep Looks Like

One of the first things to know is that babies experience different states of consciousness, just like adults. They move between deep sleep and active sleep. During active sleep, your baby may make sounds, move, or even open their eyes, which can make you think they’re awake. However, they’re still asleep! Many parents accidentally wake their babies by picking them up during this phase, thinking their baby is ready to be fed or held. Being aware of these subtle sleep states can help you avoid interrupting your baby’s rest.

Newborn Sleep Cycles

Typical newborn sleep consists of many short naps throughout the day and night, and the lengths will be different for each child. This pattern is completely normal and reflects your baby’s growing needs. As they develop, their sleep stretches will gradually get longer, but the early months can be unpredictable. Knowing that these short sleep cycles are normal can help you manage your expectations and find ways to rest when you can, rather than hoping for long stretches of uninterrupted sleep right away.

Infants Need Co-Regulation

Supporting an infant in arms supports their nervous system through co-regulation.

One of the most effective ways to support your baby’s sleep is through co-regulation. This means using your presence and soothing actions, like talking softly, rocking, or simply being close, to help your baby feel secure. Babies rely on their caregivers to calm their immature nervous systems, and your gentle touch and voice can make a big difference in how well they sleep. Over time, this sense of security will help your baby settle more easily and sleep more soundly.

It’s important to find ways to care for your own sleep needs while meeting your baby’s. Rest when your baby rests, even if it's just a short nap, and if possible, share nighttime duties with your partner. Creating a calming bedtime routine…dimming lights, using soft sounds, and moving slowly, can also signal to both you and your baby that it’s time to wind down. Balancing your baby’s emotional needs with your own need for rest is key to surviving the newborn stage. With a little knowledge and preparation, you can approach those sleepless nights with confidence and care.

BabySpace Coachella Valley

The playroom at BabySpace Coachella Valley. 

Becoming a parent is a profound and life-altering experience, but it comes with its fair share of unspoken challenges. Meeting with other parents and exploring together what you are envisioning life could look like with your infant and toddler is an invaluable piece of new parenthood. By sharing experiences with others in a place like a BabySpace Coachella Valley Mommy and Me group, parents can find solace in the shared journey of raising the next generation, embracing both the joys and the trials that come with it.

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