Infant Sleep: What Every Tired Parent Needs to Know

Babies’ sleep patterns change quickly in the first two years. At first, newborns sleep in short bursts—just 1 to 2 hours at a time, around the clock. That’s because their tiny tummies need frequent feedings. Most babies start sleeping longer stretches at night by about 3 months old (or once they weigh around 12–13 pounds). By 6 months, about two-thirds of babies are sleeping 6 to 8 hours in a row.

But it’s not just about how much they sleep—it’s also about how. Babies have shorter sleep cycles than adults and spend less time in dream (REM) sleep. As they grow, they start to sleep longer at night and take fewer naps during the day. (See chart below.)

Sometimes, even good sleepers start waking up again. This is normal—especially around 6 months—often linked to separation anxiety or developmental changes. Teething, illness, or overstimulation can also disrupt sleep.

You can help your baby learn healthy sleep habits by watching for signs of tiredness (like eye rubbing, yawning, or fussing), keeping a calming bedtime routine, and helping them fall asleep on their own. Babies who feel safe and comforted during the day tend to sleep better at night.

Why This Matters

Sleep isn’t just about rest—it’s essential for your baby’s brain growth, mood regulation, and development. And let’s be honest, better baby sleep often means better parent sleep too. A little structure and a lot of love can go a long way toward helping your baby (and you) sleep more soundly.

Try This at Home

• Start a soothing bedtime routine. A warm bath, soft music, cuddles, and a short book can help signal that it’s time to wind down. Keep it the same each night to build comfort and predictability.

• Lay your baby down drowsy, but awake. This helps them learn how to fall asleep on their own—and go back to sleep if they wake during the night.

• Keep things calm before bed. Dim the lights, lower the noise, and avoid stimulating activities like rough play or screens.

• Use gentle reassurance during night wakings. Instead of picking your baby up right away, try soft pats or a calming voice to help them settle back to sleep.

Safe Sleep Tips (AAP Recommendations)

• Always place your baby on their back to sleep—never on their side or tummy.

• Use a firm mattress with a fitted sheet—no soft bedding, pillows, or toys in the crib.

• Share a room, not a bed. Keep baby in a crib or bassinet near your bed for at least the first 6 months.

• Avoid overheating. Dress baby lightly and skip head coverings indoors.

• Offer a pacifier at sleep time (after breastfeeding is well-established).

• No smoking, drugs, or alcohol during pregnancy or around baby—these raise the risk of SIDS.

Sleep Chart: Typical Sleep Needs by Age

Source: Johns Hopkins Medicine. "Infant Sleep." Johns Hopkins Medicine,