The Complete Guide to Newborn Sleep
What to Expect in the First Few Weeks
Bringing a newborn into the world is an exhilarating and life-altering experience. The first 8 weeks with your baby are filled with a whirlwind of emotions, sleepless nights, and countless precious moments. As you embark on this incredible journey, it's essential to prepare yourself for the highs and lows that come with caring for a newborn. In this guide, I'll walk you through what you can expect during the first 8 weeks with your little one.
Weeks 1–2: The Newborn Honeymoon
The initial days with your newborn often feel like a dreamy, surreal period known as the "newborn honeymoon phase." Your baby is adjusting to life outside the womb, and you're adjusting to the newfound responsibility of caring for a tiny human. During this time, sleep is sporadic and baby's needs take precedence. Be patient with yourself and your baby as you establish a routine and bond.
Weeks 3–4: Sleep Deprivation Sets In
By the third week, sleep deprivation may start to catch up with you. Your baby's sleep patterns are still unpredictable, and you may find yourself navigating a mix of short naps and nighttime feedings. Establishing a soft sleep rhythm and taking turns with your partner can help ease the exhaustion. Remember to prioritise self-care when possible — a short nap, a warm shower, or a quiet moment to recharge all count.
Weeks 5–6: Smiles and Coos
Around the fifth and sixth weeks, you may notice your baby's first social smiles and delightful coos. These small gestures are heartwarming and provide a glimpse into your baby's emerging personality. Engage in gentle playtime, make eye contact, and enjoy the simple joys of bonding with your little one. As your baby becomes more alert, you'll witness a beautiful connection forming between you.
Weeks 7–8: A Routine Begins to Form
As your baby approaches the two-month mark, you'll likely begin to see a more predictable routine emerge. While every baby is different, many newborns start showing signs of a more consistent sleep-wake cycle. Use this time to focus on a gentle bedtime routine and provide a calming atmosphere to help your baby wind down. This can include activities like a warm bath, a gentle lullaby, or a soothing bedtime story.
"Let go of schedules."
You cannot 'spoil' a newborn baby — they need as much attention as you can give them. Allow yourself time to adjust to your new family and try to enjoy each step of the way. Your baby will not settle into a predictable routine until about six to eight weeks, sometimes later.
The routine in the early days is more about following Tracy Hogg's E.A.S.Y rhythm — Eat, Activity, Sleep, and Your time.
E = Eat
Feed your baby. Whether you're breastfeeding or bottle feeding, feeds should only last 20–30 minutes maximum. Newborn babies tire early, so any longer could mean your baby is using you as a prop or dummy.
A = Activity
At this age, the activity can be as simple as giving a burp and changing their nappy. If you have time, you can try a bit of tummy time.
S = Sleep
After 45–60 minutes, your newborn baby is going to be ready for another nap. Our biggest tip at this age is to ensure your baby does not become overtired. Your newborn is only capable of staying awake for a small amount of time (45 minutes to 1 hour) — and this includes feed time.
Y = Your Time
This is your opportunity to have a shower, enjoy a hot cup of coffee, or just relax on the lounge whilst watching Netflix.
Awake Time
In the first six to eight weeks, your newborn is only capable of staying awake between 45–60 minutes (which includes feeding time). Feed, burp, nappy change, and if possible, offer a bit of tummy time along with some cuddles. Swaddle and place your baby down in the bassinet awake before the 60-minute mark.
Where Should My Newborn Sleep During the Day?
For the first six to eight weeks, I recommend napping your baby during the day in a light room as this will avoid day/night confusion. Exposing your baby to natural light during the day and getting outside where and when possible will also help reinforce their developing body clock.
When Should I Introduce a Bedtime Routine?
It's never too early to implement a bedtime routine. A bedtime routine is a great way to introduce consistency with your newborn — it makes them feel secure knowing what comes next. Keep it simple, no longer than 30–45 minutes. A warm bath, a massage, and a full feed is a great example.
What Time Should My Newborn Go to Bed?
Newborns typically don't follow a fixed bedtime schedule like older children or adults. Instead, they often sleep in short cycles throughout the day and night, waking up frequently for feedings. It's important to understand that newborns have an irregular sleep pattern and are not yet adjusted to a day–night sleep cycle. Some babies are ready for bed between 7–8pm whilst others won't be ready until 10–11pm. It's all about finding what works for you and your baby.
Feeding
Navigating newborn feeds is a crucial aspect of caring for your little one during the initial weeks. In the early days, newborns typically feed every two to three hours in line with their hunger cues.
Providing a full feed every two to three hours, rather than allowing frequent snacking every hour, serves several crucial purposes in promoting the health and wellbeing of your baby:
- It encourages efficient, satisfying feeding sessions and supports proper satiety.
- It reduces the likelihood of constant hunger and unsettled behaviour.
- It helps establish a more predictable rhythm for both you and your baby.
- It contributes to better sleep patterns and a sense of stability.
- It allows your baby's digestive system to function optimally.
- For breastfed babies, it ensures they receive the hind-milk, which is richer in fats and essential nutrients.
In the first few weeks, breastfeeding mums might find it challenging at first as they and their baby establish a comfortable latch. For bottle-fed babies, ensuring the appropriate formula and nipple flow is essential.
Expect your newborn to show hunger cues like rooting, sucking on hands, clutched fists, or increased alertness.
How Can I Get My Newborn Baby Into a Routine?
Establishing a flexible routine for your newborn is a gradual and adaptive process that can bring a sense of order to your days while allowing room for the unpredictability that comes with caring for a newborn.
In the Baby Sleep Magic App I'll walk you through setting your days and nights up for success and help you improve your child's sleep using a holistic approach — without the need for sleep training or cry-it-out. It will also boost your confidence and provide you with the knowledge, advice, and tools you need to genuinely enjoy the newborn stage.