With a newborn child, everything revolves around nutrition, hugs and… napping. But how much sleep does your little one actually need during the day? What if your baby sleeps for hours at a time or, on the other hand, simply takes short intermittent naps? In this blog, we take a deep dive into your baby’s sleep rhythm and provide practical tips to make moments of rest more enjoyable for both of you.
How much sleep does my little one need during the day?
In the first few months, babies sleep for a large part of the day – on average between 14 and 17 hours per 24 hours, much of which during daytime. The older your child gets, the more the number of sleeping hours decreases and the more defined the difference between day and night sleep becomes. Below we have compiled some guidelines:
- 0- 3 months: 4 to 6 naps during the day, adding up to a total of 5 to 7 hours.
- 4- 6 months: 3 to 5 naps, adding up to a total of 3.5 to 5 hours.
- 7- 12 months: 2 to 3 naps, adding up to a total of 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
Each baby is unique. Some sleep more, others less. The most important thing is that your baby looks cheerful and rested.
Is it normal for your baby to sleep all day?
In most cases, yes. Sleeping is vital for your child’s growth and development. Your baby produces growth hormones during sleep, and your baby’s brain processes new impressions.
As long as your child grows well, looks satisfied and is alert during waking moments, you can assume that he or she is doing well. Is your little one prone to sleep a lot and eat less or appears listless? If so, contact a childcare clinic or your family doctor.
What if your baby doesn't sleep at all during the day?
Does it seem like your child doesn’t want to take naps during the day? This can be quite exhausting at times. Our tips will help you regain some peace of mind.
- Watch for sleep signals
When your baby is yawning with a wide-open mouth, or when your baby rubs his or her eyes or looks away, this is usually a sign that your baby is tired. Put your little one down to sleep in time to prevent fatigue.
- Create a pleasant sleeping environment
Set up a quiet and darkened room. A cuddly soft toy or lullaby may help your child relax.
- Maintain a fixed rhythm
Try to put your little one to bed around the same time every day. Regular routines help your baby understand when it’s time to sleep.
Rely on routines for napping
A routine can add structure to your day. By adhering to fixed times for naps, feeding and playtime, you can help your baby get used to a predictable rhythm. This not only calms down your baby but also ensures your own peace of mind. A useful tip: get “The Wonder Weeks” app. This app provides insights into the mental leaps of your baby in its development and how they can affect sleep behavior. This way you will be better prepared for phases of restlessness.
Tips to get your little one to sleep in his or her own cot.
Useful tips for more (daytime) rest
- Create a comfortable place for your baby to sleep. Make sure the space is calm, dark and safe.
- Keep naps short in the late afternoon. Long naps after 5pm can make it harder for your baby to fall asleep at night.
- Stay flexible, every baby is different. Try different things to find out what works for you and your child.
- Don’t hesitate to ask for help from family or friends if you need some rest yourself.
Sleep is not an exact science
Every child develops its own rhythm at its own pace. As long as your baby grows, is cheerful, and enjoys the moments it is awake, you’re doing something right. Do you still have concerns about your baby’s sleeping behavior? Then consult your family doctor or a childcare clinic.
