When we have had a great night’s sleep, we often say we “slept like a baby”. However, many a new mother will question the truth of this saying when they struggle with their baby’s sleep.
We have looked previously at how establishing a good sleep pattern starts in the morning through exposure to natural light. Night and Day
Well, this, along with other factors is also important for babies.
Infants sleep better when:
1) Their needs are met with: enough food, abundant comfort including skin to skin with mum, and a comfortable temperature.
2) Having been walked or moved and exposed to natural light during the day. One of the best ways to “move’ a baby is to put them in a sling and go for a morning walk. This creates a natural movement for the baby while getting daylight exposure.
3) Having optimal levels of iron, B12 and Vitamin D. The key here is that mum needs to check her own levels and supplement herself if necessary, so that it is passed through the breast milk.
4) Reduce light exposure at night. Babies are just like us; they sleep best in the dark. Light is stimulating to a baby’s brain, while darkness promotes sleep. Babies do not need night lights.
I hope these tips help to give your babies and you a good night’s sleep.
Wishing you all health and happiness,
Dr. Maria