Helping your baby sleep through the night

Newborns typically sleep for short periods of time

Anywhere from 2-4 hours at a time, which can make it difficult for parents to get the rest they need. Additionally, many newborns have trouble sleeping through the night due to hunger, discomfort, or the need to burp, which can make it even harder for parents to get the rest they need.

The key to helping your newborn sleep through the night is understanding their needs and being able to distinguish between the different cries they make. This is where the Dunstan Baby Language comes in.

By recognizing the different cries that correspond to hunger, tiredness, discomfort, lower wind, and the need to burp, you can take the appropriate action to help your baby sleep.

For example, if your baby is crying with the “neh” sound, it is likely that they are hungry and need to be fed.

By feeding your baby when they are hungry, you can help them sleep longer. On the other hand, if your baby is crying with the “owh” sound, they may be tired and need to be put to bed. By putting your baby to bed when they are tired, you can help them sleep through the night.

Another key to helping your newborn sleep through the night is creating a consistent sleep routine.

This can include a bedtime routine such as a bath, a lullaby, and a bedtime story. This will help your baby learn when it is time to sleep.

Additionally, it is important to create a comfortable and safe sleeping environment for your baby. This includes ensuring the room is at a comfortable temperature, using a firm mattress and tight-fitting sheets, and keeping the room dark and quiet.

Remember that every baby is different and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to getting them to sleep.

Some babies may sleep better with white noise (sound machines are brilliant), while others may prefer complete silence. Some may prefer to be swaddled, while others may prefer to have their arms free. It’s important to observe your baby’s preferences and adjust accordingly.

As a new parent, it can be challenging to help your newborn sleep through the night. But by understanding your baby’s needs, creating a consistent sleep routine, and providing a comfortable and safe sleeping environment, you can help your baby learn to sleep through the night.

Nudge your little one to sleep more during the night

I talk about this in great detail in my Stage Two eBook.

Essentially, we gradually nudge our baby to sleep gradually less during the day and more at night. There are a variety of techniques you can employ. But, whatever you do, don’t let your baby get overtired during the day. If your little one wants to sleep, let him sleep. But, if he is stirring out of his nap during the day, don’t try to extend the nap by gently rocking the bassinet and shushing.

Night-time is a different matter though. Help your little one get an extra ten, fifteen minutes if you can. Even an hour if possible. 

It’s not easy, but it will be sleeping through the night faster than if you let your baby adjust without your assistance.

The Dunstan Baby Language can be an essential tool for new parents to understand their baby’s needs and take the appropriate actions. Remember to be patient and don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends, family or healthcare professionals.