Congratulations and welcome to six years of sleep deprivation...so the story goes!  

According to Sleepassociation.org babies sleep patterns are formed from environmental factors and genetic factors that may be out of your control. With the baby waking up 2-3 times per night, having shorter sleep cycles, and not being adjusted to daytime naps and nighttime sleeps, your sleep will be disrupted. The good news is that your baby will grow and develop a more regular sleep cycle. 

Cathy Finlay, with the National Childbirth Trust shares some ways for parents to mitigate the impact of disturbed sleep.  

 

Cute,Baby,Yawning,Before,Sleep
  • Try not to worry about non-essential jobs around the house. Leave the chores and take a nap when your baby does.  
  • Accept help from family and friends. 
  • Consider putting the crib or bassinet closer to your bed in the beginning to make diaper changes and feedings quick and easy so you can get back to sleep sooner.  
  • Consider sharing shifts with your partner, one does the evening shift while the other parent rests to be prepared for the night shift.  
  • Avoid electronics before bedtime.  
  • Track your babies sleep to get a good idea of how much sleep your baby is getting and to point out any consistencies or inconsistencies in their routine. This helps you to plan your sleeps and your routine.