The Truth Behind Sleep Expectations
One of the most common questions new parents ask is, "When will my baby sleep through the night?" The truth? It depends! Every baby is different, and there’s no universal timeline for uninterrupted sleep.
What Does "Sleeping Through the Night" Actually Mean?
For some, it means a full 10-12 hours without waking. For others, it’s a 5-6 hour stretch, and those that believe this are correct, according to doctors, a baby is officially sleeping through the night when they sleep uninterrupted for 5 hours. In reality, most young babies still need night feeds, and waking between sleep cycles is completely normal.
The Typical Sleep Progression
Newborns (0-3 months): Frequent night waking is expected as babies need regular feeds.
3-6 months: Some babies may begin sleeping longer stretches, but many still wake for feeds.
6-12 months: Some babies are capable of sleeping 8-12 hours with minimal night waking, but others may still need a feed or comfort.
Factors That Influence Sleep
Developmental changes: Growth spurts, teething, and milestones can cause sleep disruptions.
Hunger and feeding needs: Some babies need night feeds longer than others.
Sleep associations: Encouraging self-settling and a consistent bedtime routine can help with longer sleep stretches.
The Facts!
Sleeping through the night is a developmental milestone, not a skill to be taught overnight. Setting up healthy sleep foundations, responding to your baby’s needs, and keeping realistic expectations can help make the journey smoother.
If you need support with your baby’s sleep, I’d love to help! Get in touch for guidance tailored to your little one.
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