Your 1-6 Month Baby Sleep Kit

Your 1-6 month old baby sleep kit: common baby sleep problems, help your baby sleep through the night, the 4 months baby milestones sleeping dip ... and avoid sleep deprivation effects for you.

For you: enjoy baby in spite of sleep deprivation

The precious first weeks with your newborn baby have passed. If you're like most parents, you feel tired. Happy to have this wonderful baby around, but sleep deprivation kicks in after many broken nights.

It can be tough, I know, especially as it does not leave you with much energy to do the tons of things you would like to get done. But parent sleep deprivation just seems part of the game ... right?

In part it is, but working with the simple basics (see below) will really help your baby sleep well. That alone will give you as much rest as possible. And add to that a relaxed and positive attitude and a good portion of 'taking care of yourself'.

I know it is so much easier said than done to 'rest when baby naps'. Especially with older siblings around, household chores, work and social responsibilities ...

But do try: take a small break for yourself from time to time, don't hesitate to go down for early nights (to get at least an hour or two between two feedings in the evening).

And when you can: accept help. Your partner, a family member, friend or babysitter can take over to give you a little time for yourself. Even if it is just an hour every now and then, it can make all the difference in keeping your sanity.

Or, Ask me a Question, I'll be happy to advise and support.

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1-6 month old baby sleep essentials

Your baby's sleep development is racing: The changes your baby's mind is going through in these first months is truly amazing. Baby sleep patterns go from pretty much erratic at birth, to actually quite well developed at 6 months.

Allowing your baby to go through this development naturally, while guiding gently, is your key to good sleep now and throughout her life. You do this by working on the simple basics of good sleep:

• a well adapted baby sleep schedule including regular naps

• a trusted bedtime routine

• encourage self soothing
  

Many babies do start to sleep through the night between 1 and 6 months old. That is, if you accept the realistic 4-5 hours stretch as sleeping through. (Very) many babies do not sleep through consistently, or do so on and off.

My "Nap in a Snap" book explains how good naps help improve night time sleep. It is a step-by-step guide to finding the best nap routine for your baby - and help her sleep those naps well.

It's very helpful to know average sleep hours and how much sleep is enough for your baby.

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Common 1-6 month old baby sleep problems

Typical baby sleep problems for 1 to 6 month olds are:

• Frequent night feedings are still very normal, and often simply necessary for your baby. It is a good habit to keep all night feedings very quiet with dim lights, minimal interaction and minimal fuss for baby and yourself.

• Baby milestones in motor skill development, digestive system and psychological development are causing many poor nights. The "4 months baby milestones dip" is a typical example: a baby who slept well in the first months, suddenly sets back and wakes very often again at night. See the Q & A section below for examples and advice.

• A common baby cold or mild illness often gives a set back in sleep. If you stick to the good habits you had before, your baby will usually go back to sleeping better when she feels better again.

• Teething is a big sleep disturber, don't miss the early teething signs as some babies can hide them quite well ...

• A sleep disorder like sleep apnea in infants can trouble your baby's sleep, and be dangerous as well.

Don't hesitate to Ask your own question if you would like personal advice.

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Your 1-6 month old new baby checklist

A safe, comfortable and pleasant sleep place for your baby encourages the best sleep. The basics include:

• a safe crib or a safe co sleeping arrangement

• not-too-hot-not-too-cold covers - a wearable blanket or sleeping bag is ideal

• a (dim-able) night light to keep her reassured in the dark and to allow low-light night feedings

• A monitor: either a classical baby sound monitor or a good baby video monitor

This is also a good time to offer a transitional object like a cuddly toy, blankie, ...

It's your baby who will decide what becomes her favourite little friend but it's good to offer different things, so she can make a choice. Remember to keep baby's crib free of any toys , blankets or pillows (SIDS risk reduction) so go for something that you can attach safely to the crib sides.

A baby sling can help you through many cranky times and even help install good sleep habits. There are different types of baby carriers. The best-known are the wrap sling (like my Hug a Bub) and the pre-shaped baby carrier (Baby Bjorn type). Choose the one that suits you best.

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