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By Health Promotion Board in collaboration with Dr. Yvonne Ng, Senior Consultant, Department of Neonatology, National University Hospital.

Everyone needs a good night’s sleep. But as all new parents know, that’s easier said than done! Daddies and mummies only sleep well when the baby sleeps well.

So what can you do to get the little one to sleep well, and through the night, waking up only for a night feed if needed?

1. As Different as Night and Day

Help your baby differentiate between day and night. During the day, make the feeds fun and lively, and have lots of interactive fun with your baby.

At night, keep the feeds calm and serene, and limit the amount of excitement. Keep the light in the bedroom dim, and talk to your baby in soft, gentle tones. This will help set your baby’s body clock so he knows when it’s time to play and when it’s time to sleep.

Related: Baby's Here! What's Next?

2. Set up a Routine

A simple, relaxing bedtime routine for your baby can do wonders. Half an hour before bedtime, put your baby in pyjamas after his bath, and read him a book, sing him a lullaby, or give him a calming massage. Once you’ve set a routine, your baby will know when it’s time for a good night’s rest.

Related: 9 Must-Have Items for Your Baby

3. Use This Sleep Position

Make your baby sleep on his back. Gently move your baby’s head position when he falls asleep (for example, from right to left and left to right and central) to prevent a flat spot on the side of his head.

For babies under 6 months old, there should not be any blankets, pillows, cot bumpers, soft toys or any other such items in the crib, as this increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Other steps to prevent SIDS

  • Do not let anyone smoke around your baby. Needless to say, this applies for drug and alcohol intake as well.
  • Let your baby sleep in your room, but not in your bed.
  • Breastfeed until he is at least 6 months old.
  • Make sure that the bedding is safe and secure.

Related: Your Baby Smokes When You Smoke

Don't Worry!

Each baby is different and parents should not worry if their baby hasn’t started sleeping through the night yet. The important thing is to establish a bedtime routine and stick to it. It shouldn’t be long before parents too, can get some well-deserved rest.