Sleeping time for your baby

SLEEPING Most—but not all—newborn babies sleep a lot. Some sleep for as many as 18-20 hours a day, while others may sleep for only 8 hours a day. Some babies are more active and alert, while others are more fussy and demanding—or more calm and quiet. In general, as your baby gets older, he will require fewer naps. Most parents are anxious for their newborn to sleep through the night. When this time comes, it is a glorious event! But be patient—it might be a while. Every baby is different and there is no set schedule. In the beginning, parents should adapt their sleeping patterns to the baby’s. Feeding your baby solid foods will NOT help your baby sleep through the night. When your baby is ready, he will sleep through the night.

Put baby to sleep ON HIS BACK! The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies should be put on their backs to sleep. There is a relationship between Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS or crib death) and babies sleeping on their stomachs. If your baby has special needs, your doctor may recommend other sleeping positions.