Newborns need about sixteen hours of sleep a day, with about half of that being made up of naps during the day. Babies will usually sleep about two hours at a time at first, gradually sleeping longer at night. However, most children still need naps until they are about four. If a baby doesn't nap enough during the day, or too much, it will affect their night-time sleep.
It is important to set up a nap routine, just as it is important to have a bedtime routine. While these routines can have some steps in common, like having the pacifier or a lullaby, having slight differences is fine. The nap routine should be a bit shorter, as sometimes the babies will become more awake and have a second wind and be harder to put down for a nap. Your baby will start to give you hints that they are ready for a nap, beyond the obvious yawning. They will rub their eyes, not want to play with their toys, and sometimes just start getting cranky. Sometimes they will ask for their pacifier or to nurse, even if they aren't hungry.
So how often, and how long, should babies nap? It varies by age and by child. Newborns normally have a very "on again off again" schedule. They normally
sleep around two hours at a time around the clock. As long as they are getting about sixteen hours in a twenty-four hour period, the length between naps may vary. As the child gets older, the naps get longer and spaced further apart.
By about one month old, babies usually need about an hour less sleep and are able to sleep about three hours or so between feedings. So they have about nine hours spread through the night with about six hours of napping by day. They will adjust to the new schedule, so be aware that you may have to adjust your daily routine to fit their needs.
Three months old is about the age when many babies are finally able to sleep through the night. This is a huge relief for parents, as they are able to start getting more sleep as well. Babies start sleeping about nine or ten hours at night, and only nap about five hours.
At six months, babies usually only need about two two-hour naps during the day. They will still be sleeping about ten hours or so at night. You may find the baby waking during the night. It could be that they just need reassurance that you are there. It could also mean they need their naptime adjusted. Sometimes children who nap too much during the day will wake up during the night.
After about nine months, most children only need one nap. They will probably nap about three hours, maybe even only two, as they get closer to a year old. They are much more active and the longer nap during the early afternoon will let them be rested for their activities for the rest of the day and not be too awake by bedtime.
As they become toddlers, many children are very resistant to a nap. It is a good idea to at least encourage a "quiet time", when they snuggle up with you for a story time. Or you could encourage them to be in their room and play quietly; a nap might sneak up on them.
Visit the help baby sleep blog for more advice on how to help your baby sleep.
Friday 27 February 2009
Wednesday 25 February 2009
The benefits of co-sleeping
Co-sleeping has gained in popularity in the United States over the last couple of years, despite criticisms. Some researches have said that co-sleeping in the parents' bed is dangerous to the child. However, the statistics aren't complete. Until the 1800s, co-sleeping was the norm in the States, and still is in many countries around the world.
In the 1800s, science was just starting to learn about germs, and it was felt that less contact with others would keep people healthier. This idea was also
adopted when raising children. The development of formula milk also reduced the amount of mothers who breastfed their babies. However, as people begin to
rediscover the benefits of co-sleeping, it is becoming more commonplace than many people realize.
As long as the parents take precautions to baby-proof their bed, just as they do the rest of the house, the benefits can outweigh the possible problems. Make sure you have a firm mattress, as soft mattresses or waterbeds are still not safe for babies. Co-sleeping is not recommended for obese parents or mothers who use sleep aids. It is best for the child to sleep on the outside edge of the bed, with a safety rail or a co-sleeper that attaches to the bed. Many parents prefer the co-sleeper bed, as it allows the child to be near, yet have their own space. It is also important to not have fluffy comforters, as they also pose a risk to the baby.
One of the most obvious benefits of co-sleeping is the ease of late night feedings. Both mother and baby lose less sleep, as the baby can start nursing with out totally waking. The father usually doesn't lose any sleep, either. Studies also show that breastfed babies are less susceptible to SIDS. The baby and mother's breathing will often be in sync, encouraging the baby to breathe better.
Babies who co-sleep usually grow up to be well-adjusted and independent children. They know that they can count on their parents to be there and develop a close relationship with them. Many parents who work away from home enjoy having that additional time to bond with their children. Studies have also shown that these children tend to do better in school.
Co-sleeping isn't for every family. However, the benefits may well outweigh the perceived problems. Some parents have tried it out of desperation after they couldn't take the crying or loss of sleep anymore. They have quickly discovered that it works well and the whole family benefits from the arrangement.
For more information to to help your baby sleepvisit Help baby sleep
In the 1800s, science was just starting to learn about germs, and it was felt that less contact with others would keep people healthier. This idea was also
adopted when raising children. The development of formula milk also reduced the amount of mothers who breastfed their babies. However, as people begin to
rediscover the benefits of co-sleeping, it is becoming more commonplace than many people realize.
As long as the parents take precautions to baby-proof their bed, just as they do the rest of the house, the benefits can outweigh the possible problems. Make sure you have a firm mattress, as soft mattresses or waterbeds are still not safe for babies. Co-sleeping is not recommended for obese parents or mothers who use sleep aids. It is best for the child to sleep on the outside edge of the bed, with a safety rail or a co-sleeper that attaches to the bed. Many parents prefer the co-sleeper bed, as it allows the child to be near, yet have their own space. It is also important to not have fluffy comforters, as they also pose a risk to the baby.
One of the most obvious benefits of co-sleeping is the ease of late night feedings. Both mother and baby lose less sleep, as the baby can start nursing with out totally waking. The father usually doesn't lose any sleep, either. Studies also show that breastfed babies are less susceptible to SIDS. The baby and mother's breathing will often be in sync, encouraging the baby to breathe better.
Babies who co-sleep usually grow up to be well-adjusted and independent children. They know that they can count on their parents to be there and develop a close relationship with them. Many parents who work away from home enjoy having that additional time to bond with their children. Studies have also shown that these children tend to do better in school.
Co-sleeping isn't for every family. However, the benefits may well outweigh the perceived problems. Some parents have tried it out of desperation after they couldn't take the crying or loss of sleep anymore. They have quickly discovered that it works well and the whole family benefits from the arrangement.
For more information to to help your baby sleepvisit Help baby sleep
Saturday 24 January 2009
Choosing Graco baby cribs!
Choosing Graco baby cribs is both fun and important. There are so many different Graco baby cribs available that it may seem impossible to now which one to choose. Safety, personal preference, convenience, and price are top priorities in making the right decision for your baby.
Convertible baby cribs are a popular choice. Graco convertible baby cribs are available from a wide variety of styles, These are cribs that can easily
convert to a toddler bed, daybed or full size bed as the child grows. A four-in-one convertible crib offers the same crib styles as the three-in-one with
the addition of a twin bed design. A three-in-one convertible crib means that this crib actually has three possible uses: a baby bed, a toddler bed, and a
full size bed.Most convertible cribs require the purchase of an additional optional hardware kit to make the transition possible. Toddler beds and daybeds
often use the same crib mattress. Most convertible cribs require the purchase of an additional optional hardware kit to make the transition possible.
Take a look at the range of Graco baby cribs available!
Convertible baby cribs are a popular choice. Graco convertible baby cribs are available from a wide variety of styles, These are cribs that can easily
convert to a toddler bed, daybed or full size bed as the child grows. A four-in-one convertible crib offers the same crib styles as the three-in-one with
the addition of a twin bed design. A three-in-one convertible crib means that this crib actually has three possible uses: a baby bed, a toddler bed, and a
full size bed.Most convertible cribs require the purchase of an additional optional hardware kit to make the transition possible. Toddler beds and daybeds
often use the same crib mattress. Most convertible cribs require the purchase of an additional optional hardware kit to make the transition possible.
Take a look at the range of Graco baby cribs available!
Monday 12 January 2009
Why a baby sleep schedule is important!
One of the biggest mistakes first time parents can make is not starting a baby sleep schedule.
They figure they'll enjoy as much time as possible with their newborn baby during her first few months, they avoid creating a bedtime routine as they figure it is not necessary.
A year or two down the road, these same parents will find themselves at a loss as they now have an irritable toddler who will not go to bed. It is then they
realise the importance of a baby sleep schedule. They look jelously at all the other parents who thanks to the bedtime routine the followed from birth have
no problem getting there little ones of the bed.
A baby sleep schedule is way more important then what's convienient or not for the parents. A good bedtime routine will take a lot of work, but once it is
in place and your baby gets used to the schedule then every one will benefit.
For more information on setting a baby sleep schedule visit
the baby sleep soloution
They figure they'll enjoy as much time as possible with their newborn baby during her first few months, they avoid creating a bedtime routine as they figure it is not necessary.
A year or two down the road, these same parents will find themselves at a loss as they now have an irritable toddler who will not go to bed. It is then they
realise the importance of a baby sleep schedule. They look jelously at all the other parents who thanks to the bedtime routine the followed from birth have
no problem getting there little ones of the bed.
A baby sleep schedule is way more important then what's convienient or not for the parents. A good bedtime routine will take a lot of work, but once it is
in place and your baby gets used to the schedule then every one will benefit.
For more information on setting a baby sleep schedule visit
the baby sleep soloution
Monday 5 January 2009
5 simple ideas to help you solve your baby sleep problems.
The key to both you and your baby getting a good nights sleep is a simple bedtime routine. If your baby knows what to expect and when to expect it, then they will be more relaxed, which will help them to fall asleep quickly and easily. What ever you choose to include in your bedtime routine, it is impotant that the routine end in babys room , and that your babys room be a comfortable, pleasant environment. Make bedtime a pleasurable time with lots of cuddles and kisses and your baby will be sure to enjoy bedtime, and will learn to fall asleep with out any fuss. Try encorporating some of the following ideas into your babies bedtime routine.
Bath time. This is one of the most popular parts of the bed time routine. sitting in warm water can be a calming and soothing experience for your baby helping to gently ease them in to bedtime.
Release pent up energy. Allow baby to have a kick about or any other activity that allows them to use up there energy before bedtime, but be sure to follow it up with calm time.
Singing. Singing your babies favourtie lullaby or playing a cd before bedtime can help to calm your baby and help them recognise that it is bedtime.
Reading. Reading bedtime stories is another favourite part of the bedtime routine, not only will baby love hearing your voice but you are encouraging your babys language skills.
Getting ready for bed. This can include putting on pyjamas, washing baby's face, changing baby's nappy and brushing teeth or gums.
Which ever ideas you choose to include in your bedtime routine ensure you stick to it and before long you will banish your baby sleep problems.
For more information on how a bedtime routine can solve your baby sleep problems Click Here
Bath time. This is one of the most popular parts of the bed time routine. sitting in warm water can be a calming and soothing experience for your baby helping to gently ease them in to bedtime.
Release pent up energy. Allow baby to have a kick about or any other activity that allows them to use up there energy before bedtime, but be sure to follow it up with calm time.
Singing. Singing your babies favourtie lullaby or playing a cd before bedtime can help to calm your baby and help them recognise that it is bedtime.
Reading. Reading bedtime stories is another favourite part of the bedtime routine, not only will baby love hearing your voice but you are encouraging your babys language skills.
Getting ready for bed. This can include putting on pyjamas, washing baby's face, changing baby's nappy and brushing teeth or gums.
Which ever ideas you choose to include in your bedtime routine ensure you stick to it and before long you will banish your baby sleep problems.
For more information on how a bedtime routine can solve your baby sleep problems Click Here
Thursday 1 January 2009
Newborn sleeping patterns.
Congratulations on the birth of your new baby. This is a wonderful time in your life -- and a sleepless time too.
It is important to realise that newborn sleeping patterns are very different to sleeping patterns of older babies. During the early months of your baby's
life, he sleeps when he is tired, it's that simple. It is unrealistic to expect a newborn to be "sleeping through the night" soon after birth. For a new
baby, a five-hour stretch is a full night, even then most newborns may not be able to manage that.Newborn babies have very tiny tummies. Their diet is
liquid, and it digests quickly. They need to feed regularly at intervals of 2 - 4 hours even through the night.
It is natural for a newborn to fall asleep while sucking at the breast, a bottle, or a pacifier. When a baby always falls asleep this way, he learns to
associate sucking with falling asleep; over time, he cannot fall asleep any other way.Therefore, if you want your baby to be able to fall asleep by
themselves, it is essential that you sometimes let your newborn baby suck until he is sleepy, but not totally asleep. Your baby will soon learn to fall
asleep by themselves.
A newborn sleeps sixteen to eighteen hours per day, and this sleep is distributed evenly over six to seven sleep periods. By helping your baby differentiate
between day and night, your baby will start to sleep longer periods through the night and take shorter naps through the day. Have your baby take his
daytime naps in a lit room where there is noise or whitenoise, and establish a bedtime routine at night time.
Get familiar with your baby's sleepy signals such as quieting down, losing interest in people and toys, and fussing, and put her down to sleep as soon as
she seems tired. A baby who is encouraged to stay awake when her body is craving sleep is an unhappy baby.
Just remember these newborn sleeping patterns what last for long, the situation will improve day by day; and before you know it, your newborn won’t be so
little anymore — she’ll be walking and talking and getting into everything in sight…during the day, and sleeping peacefully all night long.
VisitThe baby sleep soloution for more information.
It is important to realise that newborn sleeping patterns are very different to sleeping patterns of older babies. During the early months of your baby's
life, he sleeps when he is tired, it's that simple. It is unrealistic to expect a newborn to be "sleeping through the night" soon after birth. For a new
baby, a five-hour stretch is a full night, even then most newborns may not be able to manage that.Newborn babies have very tiny tummies. Their diet is
liquid, and it digests quickly. They need to feed regularly at intervals of 2 - 4 hours even through the night.
It is natural for a newborn to fall asleep while sucking at the breast, a bottle, or a pacifier. When a baby always falls asleep this way, he learns to
associate sucking with falling asleep; over time, he cannot fall asleep any other way.Therefore, if you want your baby to be able to fall asleep by
themselves, it is essential that you sometimes let your newborn baby suck until he is sleepy, but not totally asleep. Your baby will soon learn to fall
asleep by themselves.
A newborn sleeps sixteen to eighteen hours per day, and this sleep is distributed evenly over six to seven sleep periods. By helping your baby differentiate
between day and night, your baby will start to sleep longer periods through the night and take shorter naps through the day. Have your baby take his
daytime naps in a lit room where there is noise or whitenoise, and establish a bedtime routine at night time.
Get familiar with your baby's sleepy signals such as quieting down, losing interest in people and toys, and fussing, and put her down to sleep as soon as
she seems tired. A baby who is encouraged to stay awake when her body is craving sleep is an unhappy baby.
Just remember these newborn sleeping patterns what last for long, the situation will improve day by day; and before you know it, your newborn won’t be so
little anymore — she’ll be walking and talking and getting into everything in sight…during the day, and sleeping peacefully all night long.
VisitThe baby sleep soloution for more information.
Wednesday 31 December 2008
Baby Sleep Aids - So Everyone Can Sleep Well
How many times in the last few weeks have you tried to get your baby to sleep but to no avail? Millions of families go through this every night and when all else fails, baby sleep aids can help you to get some of the sleep you deserve and need.
The problem is that there are many baby sleep aids to choose from, so which one do you pick? Here are a few examples of baby sleep aids that are commonly used and may wish to try to see if they'll help to solve your baby's sleeping problem.
Firstly, how can you go wrong with the good old blanket? At some point, every single one of us has us clung on to a blanket as babies. The comfort, security, and warmth will leave a baby feeling cozy and allow him to relax if he's having trouble sleeping. It's one of the best and most used baby sleep aids ever.
As a variation of this, you could use some other transitional object such as a teddy bear, or possibly mom's t-shirt, so that your baby can settle down with a smell that he or she is comfortable with.
Unfortunately though, there are times when a blanket or other transitional object just won't be enough, so you may wish to consider utilizing another baby sleep aid or baby sleep technique.
Night lights are also common baby sleep aids and can help make your child feel a little more comfortable in their dark surroundings. Although we may not know it, babies may often wake up and cry because they aren't used to being alone and they don't recognise their surroundings. A night light will give them security when they open their eyes. Being in familiar surroundings and being able to see the baby toys above the bed or stars on the ceiling will put them at ease.
Music or sounds are also great types of baby sleep aids you might want to try if you haven't already. Soft, carefree music such as classical musical at low volumes is very soothing for a baby's ears which can help get them to sleep. You could even leave this music playing through the entire night if it helped. Alternatively, white noise, which can sound horrible to adults, can be extremely soothing for a baby. A fan, having the television on, or even the sounds of nature .... birds, rain or whale sounds are very common. There are also white noise CD's you can buy with the sound of a vacuum cleaner or washing machine etc. Again, these sound rather strange but really can help.
Although all of these are all capable baby sleep aids and many parents will testify to their effectiveness, it is also possible that none of them may work for your child. No two children are the same and so there is unfortunately no single cure-all for baby sleeping problems. However, with some tried and tested baby sleep techniques, a good baby sleep routine and the odd baby sleep aid thrown in for good measure, you and your baby can soon be getting the full nights sleep that you richly deserve.
For more details of Baby Sleep Aids and for an easy solution to your baby's sleeping problems, visit Baby sleep solution.
The problem is that there are many baby sleep aids to choose from, so which one do you pick? Here are a few examples of baby sleep aids that are commonly used and may wish to try to see if they'll help to solve your baby's sleeping problem.
Firstly, how can you go wrong with the good old blanket? At some point, every single one of us has us clung on to a blanket as babies. The comfort, security, and warmth will leave a baby feeling cozy and allow him to relax if he's having trouble sleeping. It's one of the best and most used baby sleep aids ever.
As a variation of this, you could use some other transitional object such as a teddy bear, or possibly mom's t-shirt, so that your baby can settle down with a smell that he or she is comfortable with.
Unfortunately though, there are times when a blanket or other transitional object just won't be enough, so you may wish to consider utilizing another baby sleep aid or baby sleep technique.
Night lights are also common baby sleep aids and can help make your child feel a little more comfortable in their dark surroundings. Although we may not know it, babies may often wake up and cry because they aren't used to being alone and they don't recognise their surroundings. A night light will give them security when they open their eyes. Being in familiar surroundings and being able to see the baby toys above the bed or stars on the ceiling will put them at ease.
Music or sounds are also great types of baby sleep aids you might want to try if you haven't already. Soft, carefree music such as classical musical at low volumes is very soothing for a baby's ears which can help get them to sleep. You could even leave this music playing through the entire night if it helped. Alternatively, white noise, which can sound horrible to adults, can be extremely soothing for a baby. A fan, having the television on, or even the sounds of nature .... birds, rain or whale sounds are very common. There are also white noise CD's you can buy with the sound of a vacuum cleaner or washing machine etc. Again, these sound rather strange but really can help.
Although all of these are all capable baby sleep aids and many parents will testify to their effectiveness, it is also possible that none of them may work for your child. No two children are the same and so there is unfortunately no single cure-all for baby sleeping problems. However, with some tried and tested baby sleep techniques, a good baby sleep routine and the odd baby sleep aid thrown in for good measure, you and your baby can soon be getting the full nights sleep that you richly deserve.
For more details of Baby Sleep Aids and for an easy solution to your baby's sleeping problems, visit Baby sleep solution.
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