Moms on Call's Best Baby Sleep Tips for New Parents

Hey, sleep-deprived parents! We know you're dreaming of the day when you can finally say goodbye to those 3 AM wake-up calls. Well, grab your coffee and get comfy because we've got some game-changing baby sleep tips to share. Let's make those sweet dreams a reality!

Stick to the Schedule

Babies thrive on routine, and with Moms on Call, it’s all about the clock! Create a consistent daily schedule for feeding, napping, and bedtime. This helps your baby know what to expect and when. A predictable routine can work wonders for everyone’s sleep.

Sticking to a schedule can feel challenging, but it’s all about finding a rhythm that works for your family. Start by establishing key elements like feeding and sleep times that are consistent each day. Use the Moms on Call Typical Day Schedules as your guide to create a routine that flows naturally.

Be sure to plan for reset points, like meals, to help regroup if the day strays off track. Embrace a little flexibility on busy days—life happens! It’s okay to adjust as needed, but returning to your routine as soon as possible will help your little one recalibrate.

You're doing a fantastic job laying the groundwork for healthy habits. With a bit of consistency and patience, you'll find your flow!

Create a Sleep-Inducing Environment

Make your baby’s sleep space cozy and calm:

• Dim the lights: A dark room signals it’s time to sleep.

• White noise: We recommend the LectroFan Classic sound machine. It’s favored for its high-quality white noise, which creates a calming sleep environment for your little one. When setting it up, place the machine about 12-24 inches from the crib and ensure it’s loud enough to be heard outside the door, ideally around 62-70 dB. Steady, constant white noise is best, as it mimics the sounds babies heard in the womb, helping them relax and sleep better. Avoid lullabies or nature sounds, as they can stimulate your child's brain instead of promoting sleep.

• Comfortable crib: A firm mattress with a snug-fitting sheet is perfect. Keep toys and loose blankets out for safety.

Swaddle Magic

For newborns, swaddling can be a lifesaver. It mimics the snugness of the womb and can help soothe your baby to sleep. Just make sure to swaddle safely – not too tight, and with room for those little hips to move. *For babies 3 months and under, showing no signs of rolling over.

Day and Night Differentiation

Help your baby learn the difference between day and night:

• Daytime: Keep the house bright, engage in play, and have plenty of noise.

• Nighttime: Keep things quiet and dark. Avoid stimulating activities and speak softly.

Lay Down Drowsy, But Awake

This one’s a gem! Put your baby down when they’re drowsy but still awake. This helps them learn to fall asleep on their own. It might take a few tries, but patience will pay off.

Pacifier? Why Not!

Using a pacifier can be a wonderful tool to help soothe your baby to sleep! At Moms on Call, we recommend introducing a pacifier from birth if your little one is healthy and breastfeeding is established. The sucking reflex is natural and calming, making pacifiers a great comfort.

When it’s time for sleep, ensure your baby is swaddled appropriately under 12 weeks, lay them on their back, and turn on the sound machine. Offer the pacifier gently as part of your soothing routine. If they’re fussy, you can rub, shush, or jiggle them while they have the pacifier to help them settle.

Remember, every baby is unique, so trust your instincts and find what works best for your family.

Nighttime Check-ins

If your baby wakes up in the middle of the night, wait a few minutes before going in to soothe them. Sometimes, they might settle back down on their own. If not, keep the interaction brief and soothing – a gentle pat or a soft whisper is often all they need.

Take Care of Yourself

Last but definitely not least, take care of YOU. A well-rested, happy parent is the best gift you can give your baby. Don’t hesitate to ask for help and sneak in naps whenever you can.

Remember, parenting isn’t about perfection, it’s about presence. Take a few deep breaths, savor the small wins, and give yourself grace on the hard days. Whether it’s a quiet cup of coffee before the house wakes up or a few minutes scrolling baby photos that make you smile, these little pauses help refill your cup. Because when you’re cared for, your whole family feels the difference.

So there you have it, our top baby sleep tips to help you and your little one get those precious Zzz’s. Sweet dreams and happy napping!

Why use Moms on Call for baby sleep?

Using Moms on Call for sleep can be a game changer for your family! Our approach is built on years of experience from pediatric nurses who understand the challenges parents face. We provide practical, nurse-tested guidance that emphasizes consistency and safety, helping you establish healthy sleep habits for your little one.

With our Typical Day Schedules, you’ll find a clear structure that brings predictability to your daily routine. This helps your baby learn to self-soothe and sleep better, giving you both more restful nights. Plus, our resources, like books and consultations, offer personalized support tailored to your family’s needs.

You're already taking a fantastic step by seeking solutions for better sleep. Embracing the Moms on Call method can help create a more peaceful and joyful family life.

Need More Support with Your Little One's Sleep Regression?

With each and every Moms on Call Consulting experience, we have one goal in mind— to equip you with the confidence you need to become the best parent possible for your child . We are proud to partner with Certified Consultants who are uniquely trained to work with families utilizing the Moms on Call philosophy. All consultants are licensed nurses with pediatric experience who have used Moms on Call within their own homes.