The Rhythm of Life

A baby’s rhythm of life is different from an adult. Newborns sleep more frequently but in short bouts and as they grow older their sleeping patterns will change.  As each baby's character is unique, it is important for parents to establish a sleeping pattern that is suitable for their baby’s growth at different stages of life.

 

 

 

Age Approximate hours of sleep required: Amount of naps needed: Newborn 16 – 20 hours daily   3 weeks 16 – 18 hours daily   6 weeks 15 – 16 hours daily   4 months 9 – 12 hours daily 2 naps (2 – 3 hours each) 6 months 11 hours daily 2 naps (1.5 – 2.5 hours each) 9 months 11 – 12 hours daily 2 naps (1 – 2 hours each) 1 year 10 – 11 hours daily 2 naps (1 – 2 hours each) 18 months 13 hours daily 1 or 2 naps (1 – 2 hours each) 2 years 11 – 12 hours daily 1 nap (2 hours) 3 years 10 – 11 hours daily 1 nap (2 hours) 4 – 5 years 10 – 12 hours daily Usually without nap

Note:

1. Babies' sleeping patterns can be regular or irregular depending on each baby’s unique character.  Try to foster a regular routine and habit that will enable your baby to get familiar with.
2. The American Academy of Paediatrics recommends that a healthy baby to be placed on his back to sleep to avoid the incidence of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Preparation of a Good Night’s Sleep
Go to the Why Do Babies Cry page to find more on how you can prepare your baby for a good night’s sleep and reasons why your baby might cry at night.

Establishing Baby’s Routine
Baby’s pattern changes from one week to another. As a parent you need to understand these patterns and work out a routine that is comfortable for both you and the baby.  Here are some tips on how you can help establish your baby’s sleeping routine.

No. Routine 1. Establish a regular feeding pattern – a full baby sleeps well! 2. Keep newborn’s wake up time during the day no longer than 2 hours per session. 3. Make sure baby is well fed before going to bed in the evening. 4. Maintain a calm, cosy and low light setting when baby is sleeping. 5. Always let your baby fall asleep in their cot, not in your arms, and tuck them in securely. 6. Allow your baby around 5-10 minutes to settle in to sleep.  If they are unsettled, try to feed them and place them in the cot again.  If the problem persists, repeat the same procedure or find the cause why your baby refuses to sleep (heat, fever, pain, etc).  AVOID picking your baby up and away from the cot unless necessary.