Can anyone give me a better idea of how long my baby boy should be sleeping per day? He seems to sleep off and on well one day and the next it seems like he sleeps very little and crys more. I am wondering if there is something I can do better or if this is just normal.
By a month old your baby needs 12-14 hours of sleep total. That usually is scattered throughout the day and night.
Here are a few links with more helpful information:
http://www.babycenter.com/refcap/baby/babysleep/7654.html
http://www.babycenter.com/refcap/baby/babysleep/babynaps/...
http://www.babycenter.com/refcap/baby/babysleep/1505715.html
I hope this info helps! L.
Get the book "Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child" and Happiest baby on the block.
When they are that small all they do is sleep, eat, a poop! LOL...I have 3 and after all of them, I have learned, enjoy them while they are sleeping, it doesn't last long enough! He will start perking up soon...just be patient and sleep when he sleeps! You will learn, it is the most helpful thing! Congrats. I have 2 girls and a boy, I found the boy so much more fun (i thought the lace, pink, and purple would be the best because i can relate to it)...I was wrong, boys are so much more lovey, cuddly, and momma's boys! ENJOY!
Since your baby is only 6 weeks old, I wouldn't worry about him being on a schedule or anything. He will sleep when he needs to - you probably just need to adapt to his schedule for a while until he's a little older.
Hi S.,
This is normal for babies to sleep on and off and have good days and bad days where they don't get enough sleep. Are you a stay at home Mom? Sometimes babies could have gas, (even after you burp them), so try to burp your little one more to help settle his tummy. Is he eating good? Look in his mouth on the roof of it and see if there is a white film. If so, it could be thrush and he'll need an antibiotic for it because it is 'very' painful for babies. My son had that and it affected his sleep and he didn't drink his milk very well. Babies still love to be snuggled, as if they were still in the womb. So when he sleeps, try to swaddle him if he likes that, and or put some blankets around him (rolled up), to snuggle him while he sleeps. Babies love that. I learned that from my Mom. My son slept more when my Mom watched him than he did with us, and I noticed that she made his bed more snuggly and cozy as if he were still in the womb. :-) Also, you can try to put one of your shirts in with him so that your scent will be right there and he'll feel more secure as he sleeps. :-) Also, I have this book that I referenced to a lot called, "What To Expect The First Year". This book has a lot of great tips and advice for new Mom's. I also refered to "BabyCenter.com", and sometimes "BabyZone.com". More of BabyCenter. Their website is more user friendly. Best wishes to you and your family. G.
