Newborn Sleep Basics: What to Expect in the First Months

Sleep is one of the biggest challenges for new parents. In the first few months, newborns sleep a lot but not always in long stretches. Understanding what’s normal (and what’s not) can help set realistic expectations and ease the stress.

Most newborns sleep between 14-17 hours in a 24-hour period, broken into short naps and nighttime stretches. It’s common for babies to wake every 2-3 hours to feed, especially in the early weeks. Their circadian rhythm (day/night schedule) won’t fully develop until around 8-12 weeks.

Here are a few tips for navigating those early sleep days:

• Create a calming bedtime routine (even if it’s just a few minutes of rocking or singing).
• Swaddle safely to help your baby feel secure.
• Feed frequently during the day to encourage longer sleep at night.
• Keep nighttime care low-stimulation with dim lights and quiet voices.

And most importantly, be kind to yourself. Night wakings are temporary, and rest will come again. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to ask for help. You’re doing a great job.