Is your baby often restless during the night or only sleeping in short bursts? You’re not alone. Many parents struggle with helping their little ones get a peaceful, longer sleep. The good news is that there are simple and proven strategies that can improve your baby’s sleep — and give you more rest, too.

Why Do Babies Sleep Restlessly?

Babies’ sleep cycles are naturally shorter than adults’, and their brains are still developing. They also need to feed frequently and can be sensitive to discomfort, hunger, or overstimulation. Understanding this helps set realistic expectations and guides you in creating a sleep-friendly environment.

Proven Tips to Improve Your Baby’s Sleep

1. Establish a Consistent Bedtime Routine

Creating a calming, predictable routine signals to your baby that it’s time to wind down. This might include a warm bath, gentle massage, a quiet song, or reading a story. Keep the routine short (15–30 minutes) and consistent every evening.

2. Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment

Make sure the nursery is quiet, dimly lit, and at a comfortable temperature (around 18–20°C or 65–68°F). Use a white noise machine if needed to mask sudden noises that could startle your baby awake.

3. Encourage Day-Night Awareness

During the day, keep rooms bright and interact actively with your baby. At night, keep lights low and interactions calm and quiet. This helps your baby start to differentiate between daytime and nighttime.

4. Swaddle or Use a Sleep Sack

Many babies feel more secure when swaddled or tucked in a sleep sack, which can reduce the startle reflex that often wakes them. Just make sure to swaddle safely, leaving enough room for movement and breathing.

5. Watch for Sleep Cues

Learn your baby’s signs of sleepiness, like rubbing eyes or fussiness, and put them to bed before they become overtired. An overtired baby is often harder to settle and sleeps more poorly.

6. Limit Nighttime Feedings Gradually

As your baby grows, try to gradually space out night feedings, if advised by your pediatrician. This can encourage longer stretches of sleep.

---

Remember: Every Baby Is Different

What works for one baby might not work for another. Be patient and gentle with both your baby and yourself. If sleep problems persist or you’re concerned, don’t hesitate to consult a pediatrician or sleep specialist.