For the first three months, newborns spend the majority of their time sleeping or feeding.
They have only short periods of alertness as they adjust to life outside your womb.
Some babies take longer to learn to be awake in the day and to sleep at night.
To help your baby adjust and settle, try gently rocking, swaying and walking around with your baby.
Swaddling your baby can help your baby feel secure.
Hold your baby close to you so they can hear your heartbeat and gently stroke their face around the hairline.
Minimise stimulation, including TV and engaging toys.
Many parents find that a basic routine can help their baby know when it’s time for sleep and help them wind down.
Feed, play, sleep.
In the early days, your baby’s play time might be very limited.
Play might be as simple as watching the leaves in the trees outside, or reading a story together.
When it’s time for bed, try establishing a routine that might include drawing the curtains, swaddling and a kiss goodnight.
Learn to read your baby’s tired signs, such as: rubbing the eyes, yawning, being fussy, clenching fists, staring, frowning, and jerky limb movements.
It’s easier to get a baby to sleep if they are not over-tired.
It’s vital you have a safe sleeping environment for your newborn. Always place your baby to sleep on their back. Keep their face and head uncovered by ensuring any blankets are firmly tucked in.
Have a smoke-free environment before and after birth.
Put the baby to sleep in their own safe sleep space in the parents’ room for the first six to 12 months.
Research has also found that breastfeeding can reduce the risk of SIDS.
The early days are a time of learning for you and your baby. A schedule that’s time-focused and rigid generally don’t work for newborns. Find a schedule that works for you and your family.
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