Parenthood is a magical journey, but the challenges of ensuring a good night's sleep for your newborn can be overwhelming. Bailey Aulenbach, the experienced owner of Midnight Mama Sleep Consulting, shares invaluable tips to help both babies and parents get the rest they need. Here are her top 5 tips for better newborn sleep:
1. Start Doing a Bedtime Routine - It's Never Too Early or Too Late
Establishing a consistent bedtime routine can work wonders for your baby's sleep patterns. Bailey emphasizes that it's never too early or too late to start. The key is to keep it short and sweet, focusing on creating a calming environment. Whether it's a warm bath, a gentle lullaby, or a cozy bedtime story, the goal is to signal to your baby that it's time to wind down and prepare for a restful night.
2. Focus on Full Feedings
A well-fed baby is more likely to sleep better. Bailey advises parents to prioritize full feedings, ensuring that the baby's tummy is satisfied before bedtime. Timing is crucial – feeding the baby when they wake up from a rest period, when they are more alert, can contribute to a more substantial feeding. This approach helps establish a routine that aligns with your baby's natural sleep-wake cycle.
3. Use a Pacifier
Newborns have a natural instinct to suck, and using a pacifier can be a game-changer. Bailey recommends introducing a pacifier to help babies self-soothe and satisfy their natural inclination to suck. By doing this, you can avoid becoming the human pacifier and promote better sleep for both baby and parent.
4. Swaddle for Comfort
Babies are accustomed to the snug and warm environment of the womb. Swaddling replicates this feeling of security and comfort for newborns. Bailey suggests experimenting with different swaddle options, as every baby may have preferences. There are various swaddles available, including those with arms in or arms out, allowing you to find the one that works best for your little one.
5. Do Bedtime Later Than You Think
Contrary to common belief, an early bedtime might not be the solution for every newborn. Bailey recommends aiming for a bedtime around 9 or 10 pm, as opposed to the more traditional 7 or 8 pm. Adjusting bedtime to a slightly later hour can help your baby sleep more soundly and gradually shift to an earlier bedtime as they grow older.
By incorporating these tips into your routine, you can create a more restful environment for your baby, leading to better sleep for the entire family. Remember, every baby is unique, so don't hesitate to adjust these tips to suit your little one's individual needs.
For personalized sleep consulting services and more valuable insights from Bailey, be sure to check out Midnight Mama Sleep Consulting. You can also follow Bailey on Instagram @midnightmamasleepconsulting for additional tips, updates, and a supportive community of parents navigating the world of newborn sleep. Sweet dreams await you and your little one!
Author
Bailey Aulenbach
