“People who say, ‘they sleep like a baby usually don’t have one.’”- Leo J. Burke

#1 Trust Your Instincts
You know your baby better than anyone else, and that gut instinct you have is one of your most valuable tools as a parent. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting, and when it comes to sleep, there’s a wealth of advice out there. From professionals, friends, family, and even strangers that can sometimes feel overwhelming. It’s easy to start second-guessing yourself or feeling like you’re doing everything wrong because something that worked for another family doesn’t seem to work for you.
But remember, just because a method or routine works for someone else, it doesn’t mean it’s the right fit for your baby. Take everything with a pinch of salt and trust that your instincts will guide you. Yes, sleep challenges can be tough, and change might take time and patience, but don’t let the fear of "striking out" keep you from playing the game. As Babe Ruth said, “Don’t let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.” Embrace the journey with confidence, knowing that trial and error is part of the process, and every step you take is moving you closer to finding what works best for you and your baby.
#2 Your Baby Changes Rapidly
From the moment your baby is born, they undergo rapid developmental changes — learning to sit, crawl, walk, talk, and more. Sleep is an essential part of this growth, and as your baby develops, their sleep patterns will evolve, too. In the early months, your baby may wake frequently for milk, but as their stomach matures and can hold more, they’ll gradually move to longer sleep stretches, and eventually, sleeping through the night. However, each baby is different, and these milestones will happen at their own pace.
As you navigate the ups and downs of sleep, it’s important to remember that when you finally feel like you’ve cracked their routine, things are likely to change again. Whether it’s dropping a night feed, adjusting to a new nap schedule, or transitioning from sleeping in the same room as you to their own room, there will always be a new stage to adapt to. And that’s completely normal! Your baby’s sleep will continue to evolve as they grow, and what works now may not work in a few weeks as they reach new developmental milestones. Embrace these changes as part of their natural growth process, knowing that with each stage, you’re helping them build the foundation for healthy sleep habits that will last a lifetime.
#3 The Importance of Sleep & Embracing Naps
Sleep is essential for everyone, but it’s particularly crucial for children, as it supports their physical, cognitive, and emotional development. Just as sleep is vital for adults to recharge, children rely on it to grow, learn, and regulate their emotions. When children don’t get enough sleep, they can become irritable, have trouble concentrating, and struggle with managing their emotions. In fact, sleep is often referred to as a "growth hormone", playing a key role in their physical and brain development.
Now, naps, a topic that can cause a bit of stress for parents are a crucial part of this process. Babies and young children typically need naps well into their toddler years because they simply aren't developmentally ready to stay awake all day. Napping allows their bodies and brains to recharge, helping them stay active, focused, and emotionally regulated throughout the rest of the day.
However, naps can sometimes feel like a source of stress. Some parents may feel "nap trapped," constantly worrying about when and where their child will nap to ensure they don’t throw off the night’s sleep routine. The reality is, naps are necessary, and it’s important to prioritise them, where possible. They don't have to always happen in a cot, sometimes a nap in the pram, during an outing, or even in the car can be just as restorative.
It’s also important to remember that nap phases don’t last forever. There will come a time when your child no longer needs that 2-hour afternoon nap. While that may bring some relief in terms of your schedule, you may soon find yourself longing for those quiet moments. So, as challenging as it can feel, try to embrace naps as part of your child's natural rhythm and understand they are crucial for their well-being and yours too. Because one day, you’ll miss those quiet nap times just as much as your child misses their nap!
#5 Safe Sleep
Ensuring your baby’s sleep environment is safe is one of the most important aspects of parenting, as it helps reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Safe sleep practices are essential for keeping your baby safe while they sleep and promoting healthy sleep habits from the start. The Lullaby Trust, a leading charity in the UK, provides valuable resources and information on safe sleep to help families reduce the risk of SIDS and create a secure sleep space for babies.
Basic Safe Sleep Guidelines:
Always place your baby on their back to sleep — This applies both during the day and at night.
Keep their sleep space clear — Make sure the crib, cot, or Moses basket is free from any loose bedding, soft toys, teddies, cot bumpers, or pillows.
Use a firm, flat, and waterproof mattress — Ensure the mattress is specifically designed for the cot or Moses basket. It should be firm, flat, and properly fitted without gaps. Avoid using secondhand mattresses unless you know they’ve been well-maintained and meet safety standards.
Keep your home smoke-free — Smoking during pregnancy and in the home can increase the risk of SIDS. Make sure no one smokes around your baby, especially in their sleep space.
Avoid overheating — Babies are more vulnerable to overheating, so maintain a comfortable room temperature of 16-20°C (60-68°F). Dress your baby in layers appropriate for the room temperature, and use a baby sleep sack instead of blankets.
Room-sharing for the first 6 months — It is recommended that your baby sleeps in the same room as you for at least the first 6 months. This helps you monitor your baby more easily.
#6 Establishing a Routine and When to Start?
Some people are naturally drawn to routines, while others prefer a more flexible, go-with-the-flow approach. However, if you think about it, most of us already have some form of routine in place — whether it’s something as simple as having a morning shower or enjoying a cup of tea at a certain time. It’s these small, everyday habits that ground us and help our day feel structured. The same goes for children. While every family is different, establishing a routine for your baby can help create a sense of stability and predictability, both for you and your little one.
As a Norland Nanny, I’ve worked extensively with families to establish routines that help children feel secure and thrive. However, I understand that for many parents, creating a routine may feel like a challenge, especially if you don’t have help, if your child attends nursery, or if your family’s lifestyle involves travel or flexibility. The key is finding a balance that works for your family, and it's perfectly normal if things don't go according to plan every day.
When your baby is a newborn, establishing a routine is generally not a priority. At this stage, babies need to feed and sleep frequently, and their development isn’t ready for structured routines yet. Instead, focus on getting to know your baby and responding to their needs as they arise. Around 3–4 months old, you can begin introducing small elements of a routine, especially for things like bedtime. A simple routine like a warm bath, a fresh baby grow, or a calming walk can signal to your baby that it’s time to wind down. These small rituals provide comfort and can help your baby feel more secure.
As your baby grows and starts to develop more predictable patterns (like taking naps or eating at certain times), you’ll have more flexibility to create a routine that fits your family’s rhythm. This is also the time when your baby may start dropping milk feeds and transitioning to solids, making it a good opportunity to establish more specific meal and sleep times. However, it’s important to stay flexible — your baby will go through growth spurts, changes in sleep patterns, and developmental milestones that may affect their needs. Be prepared to adapt and adjust your routine as necessary.
One of the most important things to remember is that your baby is not a robot. They won’t follow the exact same pattern every day, and that’s completely normal. Trying to stick to a rigid, one-size-fits-all schedule, like the ones found in books or online, can often cause more stress than it's worth. Instead, use example routines as a guide to understand what you might aim for, but always feel free to adjust them based on your baby’s needs and your family’s lifestyle. Each day will look a bit different, and that’s OK! Routines should serve to support your baby, not add unnecessary pressure. By understanding your child’s cues and being flexible, you can create a rhythm that works for everyone — one that provides structure while still allowing space for those unpredictable moments that make parenting so unique.
Follow Sophie on Instagram
Visit Sophie Sleep Website

Comments