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Sleep is essential for your baby’s growth and development. But how much sleep does a 3-month-old baby need at night? And how can you help your baby establish a healthy sleep routine?
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the average 3-month-old baby sleeps about 14 to 17 hours per day, including naps. However, this can vary depending on your baby’s individual needs and preferences. Some babies may sleep more or less than others, and that’s okay as long as they are healthy and happy. This includes both nighttime sleep and daytime naps. However, it’s important to remember that each baby is unique and may have slightly different sleep.
At night, most 3-month-old babies can sleep for about 6 to 8 hours without feeding, but some may still need one or two feedings during the night. This is normal and not a sign of poor sleep habits. You can gradually reduce the number of night feedings as your baby grows older and starts eating more solid foods.
To help your baby sleep better at night, you can follow these tips:
- Nighttime sleep: Avoid stimulating your baby during the night. If your baby wakes up during the night and needs feeding, changing, or comforting, try to keep the interaction as calm and quiet as possible. Don’t turn on bright lights, play with your baby, or talk to them too much. This will help your baby learn that nighttime is for sleeping and not for playing. By 3 months, many babies begin to establish a more predictable sleep schedule and tend to sleep for longer stretches at night. On average, they may sleep for about 10 to 12 hours during the night, but it can vary from baby to baby. It’s common for them to wake up during the night for feedings, diaper changes, or simply to seek comfort. These wakeups are normal and expected at this age.
- Daytime naps: In addition to nighttime sleep, babies at 3 months old usually take three to four naps during the day. These naps can vary in length but are generally shorter than nighttime sleep. Each nap can last anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours. As babies grow and develop, they may start to consolidate their naps into longer stretches.
- Establishing a sleep routine: A bedtime routine can help your baby wind down and signal that it’s time to sleep. You can include activities such as bathing, reading, singing, or cuddling in your routine. Try to do the same things in the same order every night and start the routine about 30 minutes before you want your baby to fall asleep. It’s beneficial to establish a consistent sleep routine for your baby, as it helps signal to them that it’s time to sleep. A bedtime routine could include activities like a warm bath, changing into pajamas, reading a story, and dimming the lights. Creating a calm and soothing environment can help your baby wind down and prepare for sleep.
- Create a comfortable and safe sleep environment. Make sure your baby’s crib or bassinet is cozy, clean, and free of any loose bedding, toys, or other objects that could pose a suffocation or strangulation risk. Keep the room temperature comfortable and avoid overheating your baby with too many layers of clothing or blankets. You can also use a white noise machine or a fan to block out any distracting noises.
- Sleep cues: It’s important to pay attention to your baby’s sleep cues, as they can help you determine when they are tired and ready for sleep. Typical signs of tiredness in babies include rubbing their eyes, yawning, fussiness, or becoming less engaged with their surroundings. Responding to these cues and putting your baby down for sleep when they are tired can help prevent them from becoming overtired, which can make it more difficult for them to fall asleep and stay asleep.
- Put your baby to sleep on their back. The safest position for your baby to sleep is on their back, unless your doctor advises otherwise. Sleeping on their back reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related causes of infant death. You can also offer your baby a pacifier at bedtime, as this may also lower the risk of SIDS.
- Be patient and flexible. Remember that every baby is different and that their sleep patterns may change over time. Don’t compare your baby’s sleep habits to other babies or to unrealistic expectations. Instead, follow your baby’s cues and adjust your strategies as needed. If you have any concerns about your baby’s sleep quality or quantity, talk to your pediatrician for guidance.
- Put your baby to sleep in the same place. Sometimes your baby will fall asleep on the go but try to offer his crib for naps as much as possible.
- Flexibility and adjustments: While these sleep patterns are general guidelines, it’s important to remember that individual babies may have different sleep needs. Some babies may naturally require more sleep, while others may need less. It’s crucial to observe your baby’s behavior and adjust their sleep schedule accordingly. You can monitor their sleep patterns, track their wake-up times, and note their overall behavior to understand their unique sleep needs better. 🍼🚼
- Consulting with a pediatrician: If you have concerns about your baby’s sleep or want personalized advice, it’s always a good idea to consult with your pediatrician. They can provide guidance based on your baby’s specific development, health, and individual circumstances.
- Play with your baby during the day. Although your 3-month-old will still spend much of the day napping, playing with him when he is awake will help him learn how to differentiate between day and night.
Conclusion:
Sleep is a vital part of your baby’s well-being, but it doesn’t have to be a source of stress for you or your baby. By following these tips, you can help your baby develop healthy sleep habits that will benefit them for life.
Remember that sleep patterns can change over time as your baby grows, so it’s normal for their sleep needs to evolve. Patience, consistency, and responding to your baby’s cues with love and care will help you navigate this important aspect of their development.
