How much sleep does my baby need?

When your baby first comes home from the hospital, their irregular sleep patterns can be both challenging and exhausting. With little care for day or night, your new little bundle will probably wake often for feedings, diaper changes, or comfort. Be assured that this won’t last forever and by six months, 24 hours in the life of your baby will look very different.

Getting enough sleep during the first months of your baby's life means adjusting to your own new sleep habits and those of your baby.

Here are a few things that might help with getting baby to sleep and to help you get sleep:

A good night’s sleep is essential for the long-term health of your baby.

Did you know? Waking up during the night doesn’t always mean your baby is hungry.

Scientists agree that good sleep is important for healthy growth, so follow our all-day guide to better sleep for baby.

How will you feed your newborn?

Infantile colic is characterized by intense, uncontrolled crying or fussing in an otherwise healthy and well-fed baby. Colic affects up to 20% of infants, and usually subsides around 3 months of age. Both breastfed and formula-fed babies may develop colic.

Did you know? Getting your baby into good sleep habits now can affect their sleep as they grow up. 

Is your baby getting enough?

Did you know? Too much screen time can keep your baby from being active, and may interfere with their sleep.  

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