Written by: Sarah Mitchell, Infant Sleep Consultant and Partner of Town + Country Resources
A Note from Town + Country Resources
At Town + Country, we know how important healthy sleep is — for both babies and their caregivers. As one of the nation’s premier nanny agencies, we proudly partner with trusted experts like Sarah Mitchell of Helping Babies Sleep. Whether you’re a new parent or a night nanny, understanding baby sleep development is essential for building lasting routines and supporting infant wellness.
In this guide, Sarah walks us through the month-by-month evolution of baby sleep during the first six months — a time of rapid growth, changes, and sometimes frustration for parents and caregivers.
Newborn (0–1 Month)
Newborn sleep is not well regulated — and that’s completely normal. In this stage:
- Expect 16–18 total hours of sleep spread across day and night.
- Sleep happens in short bursts of 2–4 hours.
- Wake windows are tiny, only 45–60 minutes.
- Feeding and sleep are deeply connected.
- Swaddling can be a powerful tool.
Pro Tip: Don’t stress about schedules yet. Focus on establishing feeding, safe sleep practices, and keeping your baby rested.
1–2 Months
This is when sleep starts shifting and habits can be gently shaped.
- Sleep stretches to 3–4 hours at a time.
- Light and darkness help entrain circadian rhythms.
- Babies may begin practicing falling asleep in their bassinet.
- Wake windows extend to 60–90 minutes.
- The “witching hour” often recedes by 10–12 weeks.
- Total sleep needs remain high: 15–17 hours.
Key Focus: Start a simple bedtime routine — feed, burp, swaddle, lullaby.
3–4 Months
Welcome to a big transition period.
- The 4-month sleep regression approaches.
- Sleep cycles shift to include lighter stages.
- Wake windows extend to 75–115 minutes.
- Nap lengths shorten around 4 months.
- Naps may start forming a pattern.
- Sleep associations become more noticeable.
Remember: The regression isn’t a setback. It’s a developmental leap. Babies who practiced gentle sleep shaping earlier often weather this stage more easily.
4–5 Months
Big changes continue here.
- Sleep needs adjust to 14–16 hours total.
- Naps become more predictable.
- Wake windows extend to 1:45–2 hours.
- Many babies are ready to learn self-soothing.
- Night feeds may naturally reduce.
Key Point: Babies are more aware now and have preferences. Routines ease separation and help them settle.
5–6 Months
By now, many families notice more consistency.
- Circadian rhythms mature, creating predictable nap schedules.
- Naps consolidate into three per day.
- Night sleep stretches get longer.
- Wake windows extend to 2–2.5 hours.
- Stronger sleep associations develop.
Essential Tips for Supporting Baby Sleep
Respect Wake Windows
Use them as a guide. Missing the sweet spot can cause overtiredness.
Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment
- Keep room temperature between 68–72°F.
- Use blackout curtains for naps and nighttime.
- Try white noise if needed, but keep volume safe and avoid overuse.
Swaddle or Sleep Sack
Swaddling soothes newborns, but stop once rolling begins. Transition to a sleep sack for safety.
Maintain Consistency
Babies thrive on predictable routines that signal sleep time.
Adjust Expectations
Sleep development is not linear. Some weeks will be harder, and that’s normal.
Common Misconceptions About Baby Sleep
- Keeping a baby awake longer doesn’t improve sleep.
- Not all babies “figure it out” on their own.
- Sleep needs differ even among babies of the same age.
Every baby’s journey is unique. But understanding these general patterns helps caregivers navigate changes with more confidence.
A Note from Town + Country Resources
Whether you’re a parent struggling with sleep or a childcare provider eager to learn best practices, Sarah Mitchell is an invaluable resource.
We’re proud to partner with Sarah, who offers practical strategies and evidence-based solutions for families and professional caregivers. Her consulting services and certification courses empower parents, nannies, newborn care specialists, and doulas to support healthy infant sleep development.
Visit Helping Babies Sleep to take the next step in your family’s sleep journey.
Ready to Find the Right Support for Your Family?
Whether you’re due in a few weeks or planning ahead, Town + Country Resources is here to help you navigate this important transition. We’ll guide you through every step—so you can focus on what matters most: caring for your baby and yourself.
📞 Call us to speak with a Placement Counselor
📧 Email: info@tandcr.com
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