As a new parent, sleep can feel like an elusive dream—especially when balancing work and family life. Corporate leaders who are used to managing demanding schedules may find that dealing with a newborn’s sleep routine is a whole different challenge.
But you’re not alone. Let’s break down some of the most common struggles parents face when trying to establish a newborn sleep schedule, and how to navigate them with a little more ease.
1. Irregular Sleep Patterns
Newborns are born without a sense of night and day. Their sleep patterns are driven by their hunger and physical needs, which means they wake frequently, often leaving you feeling sleep-deprived.
In the first few months, it's common for newborns to sleep anywhere from 14 to 17 hours a day, but in short bursts of 2-3 hours. This irregularity can be exhausting for parents trying to juggle work and family life.
Tip: While you can’t expect a strict schedule in the early weeks, establishing a calming bedtime routine helps signal to your baby that it’s time to wind down. Simple actions like dimming lights, swaddling, or using a white noise machine can work wonders.
2. Overtiredness
Ironically, newborns can become overtired if they miss their “sleep window.” When this happens, it can be harder for them to fall asleep and stay asleep. Busy parents know all too well the impact of running on empty—now imagine that multiplied in a tiny body!
Tip: Watch for early sleep cues like red eyebrows, decreased interaction, or zoning out. Keeping track of wake windows can also help. For newborns, these are typically 45 minutes to an hour between naps.
3. Day-Night Confusion
Another common issue is day-night confusion, where your newborn is more awake and alert at night but wants to sleep during the day. This is particularly frustrating if you need to be fresh for work in the morning.
Tip: To help your baby adjust, keep daytime feedings and playtime lively with plenty of light. At night, aim for quiet, calm, and dim lighting to encourage your little one to differentiate between day and night.
4. Cluster Feeding
Some newborns need to feed frequently during the night, especially in the early weeks. This cluster feeding can make it feel like you’re barely getting a break. While it’s an essential part of their growth, it can leave you feeling more drained than usual.
Tip: Try to rest during the day when your baby naps, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from a partner, friend, or family member to give yourself a break.
5. Sleep Regressions
Just when you think you’ve got a routine in place, sleep regressions can pop up. This is a normal part of a baby’s development, but it can catch you off guard.
Tip: Sleep regressions are temporary. Stay consistent with your bedtime routine and try not to stress over the bumps in the road.
Final Thoughts on Newborn Sleep Schedules
Finding a groove with a newborn sleep schedule can take time and patience, especially for busy corporate leaders. The good news? With a few adjustments and understanding your baby’s unique needs, restful nights will become more frequent. Remember to be kind to yourself during this process—you’re doing a great job!
If you need help adjusting to your newborns sleep patterns and want to learn how to make things more predictable, don't hesitate to reach out. Here are all the ways I can help:
PROGRAM | DESCRIPTION | PRICE |
Clarity call | To clear your doubts about my programs. Schedule here. | Free |
Peaceful Slumber Blueprint | Personalized sleep plan delivered to your inbox in less than 24 hours. Buy here. | $47.00 |
Focused Coaching | 30-minute session to ask general questions and bounce off ideas on how to help your baby sleep better. Schedule here. | $88.00 |
Lifetime Coaching | Pre-assessment. 90-minute online session. Personalized sleep plan. BONUS: 3 weeks of private coaching. Schedule here. | $295.00 |
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