5 Tips for Better Newborn Sleep

6/27/20252 min read

Bringing home a newborn is one of life’s greatest joys — but let’s be honest, it can also come with a lot of sleepless nights. As a Pediatric Sleep Consultant (and a mom who’s been through it), I know how overwhelming those early weeks can feel.

The good news? There are simple, gentle steps you can take to help your baby — and you — get more restful sleep.

Here are my favorite tips to get you started:

1. Establish a Calming Bedtime Routine

Even for newborns, a short, predictable routine can signal that it’s time for sleep. It doesn’t have to be complicated!

Try a routine like:
🛁 Diaper change
🍼 Feed
📖 Quick snuggle or lullaby
💤 Down for sleep

The key is consistency. Over time, these small steps help your baby wind down and know what to expect.

2. Create a Soothing Sleep Environment

Newborns are adjusting from the cozy, quiet world of the womb to the big, bright outside world. Creating a calm, consistent sleep space can help ease that transition.

✅ Keep the room dark with blackout curtains or shades
✅ Use white noise to mimic the sounds they’re used to
✅ Make sure the room is comfortably cool — around 68-72°F

You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect nursery. Simple, consistent cues can help your baby feel safe and settled.

3. Use Age-Appropriate Wake Windows

Newborns can only handle small stretches of awake time before becoming overtired — and an overtired baby often struggles to fall and stay asleep.

A good rule of thumb:
⏰ 0-12 weeks old: Aim for 45-60 minutes of awake time, including feeding and diaper changes.

Watch for sleepy cues like yawning, zoning out, or rubbing eyes — and try to get them down for sleep before they hit their limit.

4. Keep Nighttime Feedings Quiet and Calm

Middle-of-the-night feeds are expected in the newborn stage, but keeping those times calm helps your baby understand that nighttime is for sleep.

✅ Dim the lights
✅ Limit stimulation (no loud talking, bright screens, or playtime)
✅ Keep your voice soft and soothing

This helps set the foundation for healthy sleep habits down the road.

5. Always Follow Safe Sleep Practices

Your baby’s safety is the top priority. Be sure to follow the latest safe sleep guidelines:

✔️ Place baby on their back for all naps and nighttime sleep
✔️ Use a firm, flat sleep surface like a crib or bassinet
✔️ Keep the sleep area free of loose bedding, pillows, or toys

Safe sleep doesn’t just protect your little one — it also gives you peace of mind.

Need More Support? I’m Here to Help.

Newborn sleep can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it all out alone. With simple, personalized guidance, your family can get more rest — without rigid rules or endless crying.

Want to chat? Send me a message — I’d love to help you navigate this exhausting (but beautiful) season.

Looking for more info on surving sleep as a new parent? Click HERE to download my free guide.

Sleep doesn’t have to feel impossible — let’s make it manageable together!