Where Should Newborns Sleep During The Day?
Newborns should sleep in a safe, comfortable environment that mimics nighttime sleep conditions to ensure they get the rest they need for healthy development. During the day, this can be in a crib, bassinet, or a safe sleep space that meets stringent safety guidelines.
The Importance of Daytime Sleep for Newborns
Newborns spend a significant part of their early lives sleeping because their bodies are growing rapidly, and their brains are developing, absorbing immense amounts of information about their new world. Daytime sleep is just as crucial as nighttime sleep for a newborn’s overall growth and development. Ensuring that your newborn has a consistent and safe place to sleep during the day can help establish healthy sleep patterns and contribute to their wellbeing.
Safe Sleep Environment
A safe sleep environment minimizes risks and potential hazards. In the case of newborns, safe sleep primarily revolves around reducing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that newborns sleep on a firm, flat surface, such as a crib or bassinet, without any soft bedding, bumpers, or toys.
Crib or Bassinet
A crib or bassinet is often the best place for a newborn to sleep during the day. They are designed with safety in mind, providing a firm mattress and minimal loose bedding—both of which are essential to reduce the risk of suffocation.
Portable Playards
Portable playards with bassinets are another good option. These provide a safe and comfortable sleeping environment and can be moved around the house, which is convenient for daytime naps. Ensure that the playard meets safety standards and that the mattress it comes with is firm and fits snugly.
Co-Sleepers and Bedside Sleepers
While co-sleeping (sharing the same bed) is not recommended due to the risk of suffocation, using a co-sleeper or a bedside sleeper can allow close proximity to your newborn while ensuring they have a separate, safe sleeping space. These are especially useful for daytime naps when you might be closer and more attentive.
Factors to Consider for Daytime Sleep
Creating an optimal daytime sleeping environment for your newborn involves considering several factors, including lighting, noise level, temperature, and safety.
Lighting
Daytime sleep doesn’t necessarily need to occur in total darkness. Dim lighting that helps to signal that it is naptime while still distinguishing day from night is ideal. You can use blackout curtains if your newborn has trouble falling asleep in a brighter room, but some natural light can help to establish a circadian rhythm over time.
Noise Level
Newborns are often soothed by background noise, as it mimics the sounds they heard in the womb. White noise machines or soft, constant household sounds can provide a comfortable sleep environment. However, it’s important to keep sudden, loud noises to a minimum to avoid startling the baby awake.
Temperature and Ventilation
The room where your newborn sleeps should be kept at a comfortable temperature, generally between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit (20-22 degrees Celsius). Make sure the air is well-circulated, but avoid direct drafts on the baby. Overheating can pose a risk, so dress your baby in appropriate sleepwear for the temperature and avoid heavy blankets or overly warm clothes.
Consistency
Try to establish a consistent routine for daytime naps. Consistency helps your newborn understand when it’s time to sleep and can make it easier for them to fall asleep and stay asleep. This can involve pre-nap activities such as feeding, a gentle rocking, or a quiet story that signals nap time.
The Role of Supervision
Supervision is vital, especially for daytime naps. While your baby sleeps, you should be within earshot and regularly check on them. Although modern baby monitors can be very helpful, they are not substitutes for physical checks.
The Role of Feeding
Feeding can significantly impact when and how well your newborn sleeps during the day. Infants often fall asleep during or after feeding. Ensuring that your baby is well-fed before naptime can help them to settle more easily and sleep longer. However, try not to make feeding a direct sleep association—like needing to nurse or bottle-feed every time they nap, as this can create sleep associations you may need to break later.
Signs of Sleepiness
Recognizing the signs of sleepiness in your newborn can help you anticipate their nap times and put them down for sleep before they become overtired. These signs include rubbing eyes, yawning, fussiness, and decreased activity. Responding promptly to these cues makes it easier for your baby to fall asleep and prevent sleep struggles.
Travel Sleep Solutions
Sometimes, you might need your newborn to nap while you are out and about. In these cases, portable sleep solutions such as travel cribs or portable bassinets can be very helpful. Ensure these items meet all safety standards and are employed in a safe manner.
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There are several myths about infant sleep that can sometimes cause confusion:
Myth: Newborns Sleep Best in Total Silence
Fact: Newborns often sleep soundly with background noise, as it reminds them of the sounds inside the womb.
Myth: Daytime Sleep Should Be in Different Environments
Fact: Consistency is key. A single, safe sleep location for daytime naps can help establish good sleep habits.
Myth: It’s Okay to Let Newborns Sleep in Bouncy Seats or Swings
Fact: While these items might help soothe a baby, they are not designed for prolonged sleep and can pose a suffocation risk if the baby’s head slumps forward.
Finishing Thoughts
Ensuring that your newborn has a safe, comfortable place to sleep during the day is essential for their overall health and development. Whether it’s a crib, bassinet, or portable playard, creating a consistent and safe sleeping environment will help your newborn develop healthy sleep habits. Pay close attention to safety guidelines, and consider factors such as lighting, noise, and temperature to create an optimal sleep environment. Finally, by being attentive to your baby’s sleep cues and needs, you can help them get the rest they need while fostering a secure and restful sleep routine.
