New parents may be surprised to know that newborns sleep about 16 hours or more during the day. They typically sleep for periods of 2 to 4 hours and don’t expect them to sleep through the night. Their digestive system is so small so they need to be fed every few hours. As a result they should be awakened if they haven’t been fed for about 4 hours.

When should you expect your baby to sleep through the night ?

Many babies sleep through the night ( between 6 to 8 hours) at around 3 months of age.  However if yours doesnt, it’s  no cause for concern. Babies must develop their own sleep patterns and cycles so if your newborn is healthy and gaining weight , then you don’t have to worry.

Should you  worry about SIDS ?

It is important that babies sleep on their backs to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome SIDS. It is also important to practice other safe sleeping practices such as not using blankets, quilts, sheepskins, stuffed animals and pillows in the crib or bassinet. This can suffocate the baby. You should share a bedroom  (but not a bed) with the baby  for the first 6 months to 1 year. You should make sure to alternate the position of the child’s head from night to night (first right and then left and so on ). This will prevent the development of a flat spot on one side of the head.

How to deal with day-night reversal

Many newborns have their days and nights mixed up. They tend to stay more awake and alert during the night  and sleep during the day. One  way to deal with this is to keep stimulation at night to the minimum and  keep the lights low and use the  night light. You should reserve talking and playing for the daytime. When the baby wakes up during the day, try to keep her awake longer by talking and playing .

If you have concerns about your newborn’s sleep pattern, talk to your doctor.