It’s typical for babies under six months to wake up crying at night. Babies may not sleep through the night until they are four to six months old. Maintain a positive attitude and be prepared for this. Try to rest when you can. If your baby sleeps for a six-hour stretch, they may wake up feeling hungry.

Looking for guidance on helping your baby sleep better at night? Dr. Maya Bunik, a specialist in children’s health, provides some tips.

It’s important to remember that every baby is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Some babies may naturally start sleeping through the night earlier, while others may take longer to establish a routine.

One helpful tip is to create a consistent bedtime routine for your baby. This could include activities like a warm bath, reading a story, and gentle rocking or singing. A predictable routine can signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep.

Additionally, try to create a calm and soothing environment in your baby’s room. Keep the lights dim, use white noise machines to block out any disturbances, and ensure the room is at a comfortable temperature.

If your baby does wake up during the night, try to soothe them back to sleep without picking them up if possible. This can help them learn to self-soothe and fall back asleep on their own.

Remember, it’s okay to ask for help if you’re feeling overwhelmed or exhausted. Taking care of yourself is important too, so don’t be afraid to reach out to friends, family, or a healthcare provider for support.

Ensuring Safe Sleep

Adhere to the recommendations from the AAP to ensure your baby’s safety during sleep. Focus on safe sleeping conditions rather than just aiming for more sleep.

• Babies should sleep on their back until they are one year old.
• Use a firm mattress with no soft objects.
• Avoid exposure to smoke.
• Avoid alcohol and drugs around infants.
• Consider using a pacifier for nighttime sleep.

Establishing Healthy Sleep Habits

Try to place your baby in their crib when they are drowsy but not fully asleep if possible. Following the ‘eat, play, sleep’ routine may cause dehydration in babies.

Reducing SIDS Risk

For reducing the risk of SIDS, have your baby sleep near your bed in a portable crib. It’s recommended that your baby sleeps in your room until they are one year old.

Some additional tips for reducing the risk of SIDS include placing your baby on their back to sleep, using a firm mattress with a fitted sheet, avoiding soft bedding and pillows in the crib, and keeping the room at a comfortable temperature for sleep.

Impact of Breastfeeding on Sleep

Breastfeeding helps reduce the risk of SIDS. Breastfeed your baby in bed and then place them back in their crib. Avoid feeding your baby on sofas or armchairs to lessen the risk of SIDS.

Nighttime Routine after 6 Months

After six months, the risk of SIDS decreases, and babies may start sleeping longer. Establishing a nighttime routine can help develop better sleep habits.

When soothing your baby at night:

• Visit as needed with love.
• Speak with love and calmness.
• Avoid displaying frustration.

Other tips for a successful nighttime routine include:

• Keep the room dark and quiet to signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep.
• Establish a consistent bedtime routine, such as giving a warm bath, reading a story, and singing a lullaby.
• Ensure your baby is comfortable and not too hot or too cold.
• Try to put your baby to bed drowsy but awake to help them learn to self-soothe and fall asleep independently.
• Be patient and consistent with your routine, as it may take some time for your baby to adjust.

Seeking Medical Help

If your baby’s crying intensifies or they struggle to sleep, contact your doctor. Reach out to Children’s Colorado’s ParentSmart Healthline for assistance.

With a decade of experience in science writing, Eric Suni provides valuable insights. Want to learn more about our experts?

Dr. Nilong Vyas, a pediatrician with a specialization in children’s sleep habits, offers expertise.

Discover more about changes in infants’ sleep patterns at six months, signs of sleep regressions, caregiving tips, and when to consult a doctor.

To soothe a fussy baby at night, it is important to anticipate their needs, establish a calming bedtime routine, and provide comfort. It is essential to remember that patience is crucial, as issues like colic and separation anxiety will eventually be outgrown by babies, leading to longer periods of sleep at night. If you have any concerns or questions, do not hesitate to reach out to your child’s doctor.
Our article is based on expert advice from trusted sources such as the National Health Service (NHS). It is important to consult healthcare professionals for proper diagnosis and treatment, as this content is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See below for a full list of sources.