6 Ways New Parents Can Catch Z’s With a Newborn
New parents often struggle to find ways to get enough sleep with a newborn at home. The constant care a baby requires can be exhausting, but there are strategies you can implement to increase your chances of getting some much-needed rest. Here are six tips to help you catch those elusive Z’s:
1. Sleep When the Baby Sleeps: This advice is as old as time for a reason—it works. Newborns sleep a lot, just not always when you want them to. If you’re able to nap while they’re napping, you may be able to accumulate enough sleep in 24 hours.
2. Share Nighttime Duties: If possible, take turns with your partner for nighttime feedings and diaper changes. This allows each of you to get a longer stretch of uninterrupted sleep which can lead to better overall sleep quality.
3. Create a Bedtime Routine: Even from an early age, babies can benefit from a bedtime routine. Bathing, singing, or reading a story before bed can signal to your baby that it’s time for sleep, which might eventually help them settle down more quickly.
4. Set Up a Comfortable Environment: Make sure your bedroom is conducive for sleeping—for both you and the baby. Keep the room at a comfortable temperature and consider using white noise machines to soothe the baby and drown out household noise.
5. Ask for Help: Don’t be too proud to ask for assistance. Family members or friends may be willing to watch the baby for a few hours so you can get some uninterrupted sleep.
6. Consider Professional Advice: If you’re finding it particularly difficult to manage your baby’s sleep schedule, consulting with a pediatrician or a sleep specialist may provide customized strategies tailored to your specific situation.
Implementing these tactics can make a significant difference in the amount of rest new parents are able to get, which is crucial for both the wellbeing of the parents and the newborn. Remember that this stage is temporary and as your baby grows, longer periods of sleep will eventually return.