“Sleeping through the night” is the holy grail of baby sleep—but what does it actually mean? If you’re envisioning your baby snoozing from bedtime to breakfast without a peep, you’re not alone. The reality, though, might surprise you. Let’s break it down and set some realistic expectations for your baby’s sleep.
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Defining “Sleeping Through the Night”
For babies, “sleeping through the night” doesn’t necessarily mean a solid 12 hours without waking up. In the world of pediatric sleep, it typically means:
- For Newborns (0–3 months): 3–5 hours of uninterrupted sleep.
- For Older Babies (4–12 months): 6–10 hours of uninterrupted sleep.
- For Toddlers (12+ months): 10–12 hours of sleep, possibly with brief wake-ups they can self-settle from.
It’s important to remember that waking up briefly during the night is completely normal. Adults do it too—we just don’t notice because we know how to fall back asleep.
Why Babies Wake at Night
Even when babies “sleep through the night,” they might still wake up for reasons like hunger, teething, or a need for comfort. The key is helping them develop independent sleep skills so they can settle themselves when they wake.
How to Support Better Nighttime Sleep
Focus on Daytime Sleep
Quality naps lead to better nighttime sleep. Ensure your baby is getting enough rest during the day to avoid overtiredness.
Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment
A dark, quiet, and cool room sets the stage for uninterrupted sleep. A white noise machine can help block out noise.
Encourage Self-Soothing
If your baby wakes up, give them a moment to see if they can resettle before stepping in. This fosters independent sleep skills over time.
Stick to a Consistent Routine
A predictable bedtime routine helps signal to your baby that it’s time to wind down and sleep.
If your baby is waking frequently and you feel stuck in a cycle of sleepless nights, it’s okay to ask for support. Every baby is different, and sometimes a little expert guidance can make all the difference.
Ready to help your baby (and you) sleep better? Let’s create a personalized sleep plan that works for your family. Contact me today at Bluebird Sleep Consulting and start your journey to restful nights!
