Babies are notorious for their irregular sleep patterns, and it can be a challenge for new parents to get a full night’s rest. One of the biggest milestones for both babies and parents is when a baby starts to sleep through the night. But when can parents expect this to happen?
It’s important to note that every baby is different, and there is a wide range of normal when it comes to sleep patterns. However, most babies start to sleep through the night at around 3 to 6 months of age. This is when they have developed the ability to go for longer periods of time without needing to eat, and their sleep becomes more consolidated.
Before this age, babies will typically wake up multiple times a night to feed, as their small stomachs can only hold so much milk at a time. They also have not developed the ability to self-soothe yet, so they may cry or make noise when they wake up, even if they are not hungry.
As babies get older, their stomachs can hold more milk and they start to need fewer night-time feedings. They also begin to develop the ability to self-soothe and put themselves back to sleep when they wake up. This means that they will be able to sleep for longer stretches at night without waking up.
However, not all babies will start sleeping through the night at the same time. Some babies may start as early as 3 months, while others may not start until they are 12 months old. Additionally, some babies may have an especially difficult time sleeping through the night due to a medical condition, such as acid reflux, or a developmental delay.
There are a few things parents can do to help encourage their babies to sleep through the night. One of the most important is to establish a consistent bedtime routine. This can include activities such as a bath, reading a book, and singing a lullaby. It can be helpful to start the routine at the same time every night to signal to the baby that it’s time to go to sleep.
It’s also important to make sure that the baby is getting enough to eat during the day so they are less likely to wake up hungry at night. Parents should also be mindful of their baby’s sleep environment. A dark and quiet room with a comfortable crib or bassinet will help create a conducive environment for sleep.
It can also be helpful to let the baby learn to self-soothe. This means not rushing in to pick them up or comfort them every time they make noise or stir. Instead, parents can wait a few minutes to see if the baby will settle back down on their own.
According to Dr. Jatinder Bhatia, a pediatrician and member of the American Academy of Pediatrics’ (AAP) Committee on Nutrition, “Babies are not capable of sleeping through the night until they reach a certain age and developmental milestone.” Dr. Bhatia explains that it’s not uncommon for babies to wake up multiple times a night for feedings, and this is perfectly normal for infants up to 6 months old. He emphasizes that parents should not expect their babies to sleep through the night until they reach this age.
Dr. Bhatia also advises parents to be patient and understanding when it comes to their baby’s sleep patterns. “It can be frustrating for parents to be awakened multiple times a night, but it’s important to remember that this is a normal part of a baby’s development,” he says. He adds that it can take time for a baby to develop the ability to sleep for longer stretches, so it’s important not to rush the process.
In conclusion, it is normal for babies to wake up multiple times a night for feedings and it’s not possible for them to sleep through the night until they reach a certain age and developmental milestone. Parents should be patient, have a consistent sleep routine, and create a conducive sleep environment for their baby. If the baby is having trouble sleeping, it’s always best to consult with a pediatrician.