Understanding baby sleep patterns: what’s normal & what’s not
by Folk & Thread
Sleep deprivation is practically a parenting rite of passage, but when your little one is waking again at 3 AM, it’s easy to wonder: Is this normal? Should my baby be sleeping longer?
The truth is, baby sleep doesn’t follow a straight line—it changes over time, and every baby is different. This year’s Safer Sleep Week is shining a light on baby sleep patterns, and we’re here to break it down in a way that helps you feel more confident (and maybe a little less exhausted).
How much sleep does a baby need?
Newborns sleep a lot—but not always when you’d like them to! Their sleep cycles are shorter than adults’, and they wake frequently, often for feeding. This isn’t just normal—it’s essential for their development. Here’s a quick guide to baby sleep patterns by age:
- Newborn (0-3 months): anywhere from 8 to 18 hours per day, in short bursts of 2-3 hours at a time. Night waking is frequent.
- 3-6 months: your baby may start sleeping for longer stretches, needing fewer night feeds. Some babies manage 8+ hours, but many still wake up.
- 6-12 months: sleep may consolidate to 10-12 hours at night, but teething, illness, or hunger can lead to more wake-ups again. Around a third of babies still don’t sleep through at 12 months—so if yours doesn’t, you’re not alone!
Why babies wake at night (and why that’s okay!)
There’s a lot of pressure on parents to get their babies to sleep through the night, but night waking is completely normal—and in the first year, it can actually help keep them safe.
Encouraging young babies to sleep for longer and deeper before they’re ready could affect their ability to wake up if something is wrong, such as if their mouth or nose becomes covered. This is one of the risk factors for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Rather than trying to get your baby to sleep longer, focus on safe, supported sleep—for them and for you.
Coping with broken sleep
Night waking can be hard—especially when it feels endless. Here are some ways to make it a little easier:
- Ask for help: if you have a partner, take turns so you can get some solid rest. If friends or family offer support, say yes!
- Make a plan: knowing how you’ll manage night wakes can make them feel less overwhelming. Whether it’s taking naps when you can, prepping things in advance, or finding a comforting bedtime routine, a little planning helps.
- Don’t compare: every baby is different, and their sleep patterns will change over time. Try to focus on what works for your family rather than what someone else’s baby is doing.
- Reach out: if you’re worried about your baby’s sleep (or if sleep deprivation is taking a toll on your mental health), talk to your midwife, health visitor, or GP. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.
The sleepless nights won’t last forever, even if it feels like they will right now. One day, you’ll look back and realise those midnight cuddles weren’t just exhausting—they were also a little bit magical. ✨
Download the Baby Sleep Patterns guide from The Lullaby Trust.
