How to Fix Your Newborn’s Day/Night Confusion
Does your newborn seem to have their days and nights mixed up? Day-night confusion is a common challenge many new parents face with their newborn baby.
But don’t worry! There are strategies to help your new baby adjust their routine so that most of their sleeping happens during the night.
What is Day/Night Confusion in Newborns?
Day-night confusion happens when a newborn has trouble differentiating between day and night in the first few weeks of their life. This happens because their circadian rhythm has yet to fully develop. As a result, your newborn may sleep too much during the day and be wide awake at night.
How to Reverse Day/Night Confusion in a Newborn
- Increase Daytime Stimulation: Ensure your newborn is exposed to sunlight by opening the blinds/curtains and spending time outdoors. Keep them stimulated with tummy time and interactive play.
- Uphold Daytime Feeding Schedule: Wake your baby for consistent feedings during daytime hours. This helps establish a predictable daytime routine and encourages your baby to consume more calories during the day, leading to fewer nighttime feedings and awakenings.
- Implement a Bedtime Routine: Following a consistent bedtime routine signals the body that bedtime is near, and releases hormones to reduce the heart rate and transition the body into a restful state. Ensure the bedtime routine is calm and soothing and the lights are dim.
- Reduce Nighttime Stimulation: Keep your newborn’s bedroom dark, except for necessary tasks such as feeding or diaper changes. Minimize interactions and create a calm, quiet atmosphere.
By making these adjustments and being patient, you can stop your newborn’s day/night confusion and help them develop healthier sleep patterns.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and need additional support, schedule a free call to share your unique sleep challenges.
Together, we can help your baby – and your family – get the sleep you all need and deserve.