Baby Sleep Norms: Important Recommendations for Parents

Why is sleep important for babies?

Sleep plays a key role in a child’s development. Babies spend most of their time sleeping because their bodies are actively working during this time:

  • Energy recovery.
  • Strengthening of the immune system.
  • Memory and cognitive skills formation.
  • Nervous system development.

Baby sleep norms: Main stages

The amount of sleep a child needs changes with age. The table below shows average sleep norms for children of different age groups:

Baby’s AgeAverage Sleep Norm (hours per day)
0–3 months14–17
4–6 months12–16
7–12 months12–15
1–2 years11–14

How age affects the structure of baby sleep

As babies grow, not only the amount but also the quality of sleep changes. Key developmental stages include:

  • First 3 months. Sleep is mostly composed of the REM phase, which stimulates brain development.
  • 4–6 months. Sleep becomes more regular, with longer periods of night sleep.
  • 7–12 months. Most babies can sleep through the night with a few daytime naps.

Basic rules for organizing a baby’s sleep schedule

For healthy development, it is important to organize a proper sleep schedule. Some tips include:

  • Maintain consistency: Put the baby to sleep at the same time every day.
  • Bedtime rituals: Creating pre-sleep routines helps calm the baby.
  • Do not neglect daytime naps: They are important for energy recovery.

Night sleep for babies

The ability for babies to sleep through the night develops gradually. To improve night sleep:

  1. Create a calm atmosphere.
  2. Use dim lighting during nighttime feeding.
  3. Maintain a daily routine to support proper circadian rhythms.

Tips for parents to improve baby’s sleep

Here are a few important recommendations:

  • Create a cozy sleeping environment.
  • Avoid overstimulating the baby before bedtime.
  • Establish a consistent daily schedule.

Breastfeeding and sleep

Breastfeeding has a positive effect on baby sleep. Tips for feeding and sleep:

  • Frequent daytime feeding helps the baby sleep longer at night.
  • Gradually reduce nighttime feeding.

Sleep disturbances in babies

Sleep disturbances can be caused by various factors. The main problems include:

Sleep DisturbancePossible Causes
Frequent wakingHunger, discomfort, illness
Difficulty falling asleepExcessive activity before bedtime
Short sleep periodsInsufficient feeding, noise

The importance of daytime sleep

Daytime sleep plays an important role in a baby’s development, providing recovery and stimulation of the nervous system.

When to see a doctor?

If your baby has persistent sleep problems, it is important to consult a doctor. This may be related to physical issues or other health concerns.

Stay with us

Read previous or next posts in quick access

Stay up with new information and tips in one click.

Stress and Health: Negative Effects and How to Avoid Them image
Health
Reading time 3 min.
What is Stress and Why is It Dangerous? Stress is a natural reaction of the body […]
Read more
healthy_sleep_scene_image
Health
Reading time 3 min.
Why is Sleep Important for the Body? Sleep performs vital functions: Restoring energy. Improving memory and […]
Read more