7 Tips to Help Your Newborn Baby Fall Asleep Fast

Before I became a newborn photographer, I believed that every baby was completely unique in their behavior and needs. However, as my career progressed, I discovered that there are certain universal traits among newborns, especially when it comes to sleep. Newborns primarily follow a simple routine: they cry, eat, and sleep. As a new parent, you might be struggling to help your baby fall asleep quickly, especially during those midnight awakenings. After all, as adults, we need our sleep too.

I often get asked by my clients, "How do you make my newborn baby sleep so fast?" Here are the answers based on my experience:

1. Make Sure There Is No Other Reason They Cry

Newborns can only express their feelings through crying. The first step should be to address the most common reasons for their discomfort: hunger, needing to burp, a dirty diaper, or being sleepy. Sleepiness is usually the last reason they cry. Make sure to check all these needs before trying to put your baby to sleep. If any of these needs are unmet, your baby will not respond positively to your attempts to soothe them to sleep.

2. Ensure They Have Enough Milk

During my newborn photography sessions, I’ve noticed that parents often feed their babies less than they need. This is especially true for breastfeeding mothers. Babies tend to fall asleep while nursing because eating is a tiring activity for them. However, they might not have eaten enough to stay asleep for a full sleep cycle. Gently tapping the bottle or their feet can encourage them to continue feeding until they are fully satisfied. Once they’ve had enough milk, they are more likely to sleep soundly for a longer period.

3. Burp Them

Burping is crucial for a newborn baby. Their stomachs aren’t as developed as ours, and they need help to release the air they swallow during feeding. If air bubbles are trapped in their stomach, it can cause discomfort and pain, leading to crying or waking up during a sleep cycle. Always ensure your baby has burped before putting them down to sleep.

4. Tummy Time

Around two weeks old, babies often start to experience more gas in their stomachs, leading to increased crying in the second month. Providing enough tummy time while they are awake helps them to exercise and promote bowel movements, which can relieve gas. Think of it like how we feel sluggish after lying in bed for two days straight and then suddenly feel better after some movement. The same principle applies to newborns: they need physical activity to help their digestive system function smoothly, which in turn helps them sleep better.

5. Swaddle

After addressing fundamental needs, a swaddle can provide the structure for a good sleep. Babies often prefer to be wrapped up because it mimics the secure feeling they had in the womb. After spending nine months in a confined space, the sudden openness of the outside world can be overwhelming. A snug swaddle provides a sense of security, helping them to sleep better and ensuring their safety while sleeping.

6. White Noise

I always use a white noise machine when helping a newborn fall asleep. The noise mimics the environment of the womb, which is far from quiet. Babies are used to the sound of their mother's heartbeat and other bodily functions, so a completely silent environment can feel unfamiliar and cause them to wake up easily. White noise or even the sound of a talk show can create a comforting background noise that helps them sleep more soundly.

7. Warm Up the Diaper and Changing Area

Sometimes, you have to change your baby’s diaper while they’re asleep. Many parents find that their baby wakes up during this process. A helpful tip is to ensure that everything that touches the baby during a diaper change is close to their body temperature. Warming up the new diaper and the changing area can prevent sudden temperature changes that might wake your baby.

Conclusion

Parenting a newborn can be an exhausting but rewarding experience. Sleep is crucial not only for your baby’s growth and development but also for your well-being. By understanding your baby's needs and creating a comforting environment, you can help them fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

Each baby is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. However, these tips have been tried and tested by many parents and can serve as a helpful guide in your journey. Remember, patience and persistence are key. With time, you will find the best routine that works for you and your baby.

As a newborn photographer, I've seen firsthand how a well-rested baby can make a world of difference, not only in capturing those precious moments but also in the overall happiness and harmony of a family. So take these tips to heart, and may they help bring more peaceful nights to your household.

Sweet dreams to you and your little one!