Newborn sleep rhythm: When and how babies find their sleep

The first few weeks with a baby are magical, but also exhausting. The sleep rhythm, in particular, can quickly push new parents to their limits: short bursts of sleep, frequent waking, and sometimes endless nights.

The fact is: Newborns sleep differently than adults. Their day-night rhythm has yet to develop, and that takes time.

How do babies sleep in the beginning?

• Newborns (0–4 weeks): 16–18 hours of sleep spread over 24 hours – usually only 2–4 hours at a time
• 1–3 months: first longer sleep phases, a total of 14–17 hours
• 3–6 months: Day-night rhythm stabilizes, 4–6 hours at a time are possible
• 6–12 months: many babies sleep 8–12 hours through (often with interruptions)

👉 Important: Every child is different. Some find their rhythm quickly, others take longer, and both are normal. To find peace and quiet, parents should sleep during this phase, even when their baby is sleeping.

Why do babies wake up at night?

• Hunger – Newborns need milk every 2–4 hours
• Developmental leaps – new skills bring restless nights
• Overtiredness or overstimulation
• Growth spurts with increased need for sleep and food
After each short sleep cycle (approximately 50–60 minutes), babies also "check" to see if everything is okay. This is a protective mechanism—and nothing to worry about.

How to support your baby

• Gently introduce the day-night rhythm: light and sounds during the day, dimmed light and quiet voices at night
• Fixed rituals: Bath, massage, humming or reading aloud help to calm down
• Optimize sleeping environment: 16–18 °C, lying on your back, no pillows or stuffed animals
• Pay attention to signals: sometimes babies only need a gentle tap or hum to fall asleep again

Your smart companion: MARY by sticklett

Especially at night, it's reassuring not to have to constantly check. MARY can help you:
• continuous measurement of temperature, breathing & movements
• gentle & wireless your baby won't notice
• Alarms in case of abnormalities – so you are woken up when it is important
• perfect addition to the evening routine – for more serenity for mom & dad
This way you can give your baby the rest it needs and sleep more relaxed yourself.

Conclusion
Your baby's sleep rhythm develops step by step – completely individually. With patience, loving rituals, and smart support from MARY by sticklett, the night will become safer, calmer, and more restful for the whole family.