Newborn sleep issues: getting baby to sleep
Although newborns spend most of their time sleeping, you might still encounter a few problems with getting them into a regular sleep pattern.
Step 1 - Stick to a routine
A regular bedtime and a standard sequence for settling down at night is key to developing a sleep routine. If the time, the place or the routine changes all the time, then anxiety and confusion may creep in. Although some babies rely on regularity more than others, they all benefit from a bedtime routine.
Step 2 - Getting them down
A good bedtime routine can include a bath, snuggle time, a story or a song, and then putting them gently on their back to sleep. Getting your newborn into a night-time routine lays the foundation for a healthy attitude towards getting ready for bed as she grows up.
Step 3 - Separation issues
Putting your newborn to sleep at night represents separation from your baby, especially if you've spent the whole day with her. As parents, we have to recognise and deal with our own tough issues about being apart before we can solve any of our children's concerns.