Having your new born waking up in the middle of the night is something that happens very often for parents. Lack of sleep and exhaustion are commonplace in parents with such problems. Babies are still adjusting their body clock which results in them waking up in the middle of the night but with some aid, you may lessen the chances of that happening and get your much needed rest and sleep.
During nursing, let your baby finish the first breast as this would provide more rich hind milk that helps in spacing out their feeding time especially at night. Try to nurse your baby in a quiet, darkened room. During the day, mothers can feed their babies more frequently to meet the nutritional needs whereas at night fall, avoid diaper changes to let your baby know that it is time to sleep. Opt for afternoon naps especially when you are tired to rejuvenate yourself. If possible, make it a daily routine so that your baby will adjust their body clock to it. Nap in a well-lit area as this will encourage shorter naps resulting in better sleep at night.
It’s important to keep a routine. Get your little one to follow a fixed wake up and sleeping time. Familiar bedtime rituals can help the baby to sleep easily and for longer period. For example, keep the evenings calm or bathing before sleep which is a good relaxation for your baby. Parents can also carry your baby by nestling them on your neck while rocking them to sleep. With the help of a baby carrier or sling can make them sleep easily. Avoid any activities that are over stimulating for your young ones once night falls. A soft humming lullaby would suit the whole ambience too!
Try to be flexible as every baby has different temperaments. Work on different methods through trial and error and continue using those that work. Parent can also be adventurous and try different methods for new ideas. Put your baby to sleep in different spots and decide what surroundings suit your baby best. Some prefer their own crib, some on their parents’ bed or some prefer to snuggle beside their mother!
Sleeping routines are a habit that needs time to adjust to, like meal times. Try not to push things too hard but go step by step. Keep your attention wide open to notice small details that you might overlook and don’t forget to take care of yourselves too!