Getting enough sleep is critical for newborns, especially at two months old. Lack of sleep can cause irritability, crankiness, and even compromise their immune system. Although each baby has different sleep needs, there are general guidelines that can help you determine how long your 2-month-old baby should sleep. This guide will help you understand the sleep needs of a two-month-old baby, provide information on how to establish a sleep routine, and answer the most common questions related to a 2-month-old baby’s sleep.
How Much Sleep Does My 2 Month Old Need?
At two months old, your baby needs around 14-17 hours of sleep each day. They will sleep for about nine to eleven hours at night, with several naps throughout the day. Keep in mind that every baby is different, and some may require more or less sleep.
Nap Length for a 2 Month Old
As your baby grows, they will start consolidating their naps, and it’s normal for them to have three to four naps totaling about three to five hours. At two months old, their naps may last 30 minutes to 2 hours. Some babies may take longer naps, while others take shorter naps.
Sleeping Patterns For a 2 Month Old
At this age, your baby will have a more predictable sleep-wake cycle. They will spend more time awake during the day and sleep longer at night, usually in three to five-hour increments.
How to Establish A Sleep Routine for A 2 Month Old
Establishing a consistent sleep routine can benefit both you and your baby. It can prevent sleep disruptions, help your baby fall asleep quicker, and reduce night wakings.
Set A Consistent Bedtime
Setting a consistent bedtime can help your baby establish a routine and adjust their internal clock. Try to aim for a bedtime between 7 pm and 8 pm, and stick to it as much as possible.
Create A Relaxing Environment
A calm and conducive environment will help your baby feel relaxed and ready for sleep. Dim the lights, and use soft music, white noise, or a lullaby to help them drift off to sleep. Keep the room at a comfortable temperature, neither too hot nor too cold.
Establish A Pre-Bedtime Routine
A pre-bedtime routine can signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep. It can include activities such as giving your baby a bath, reading a story, or singing a lullaby. Keep the routine simple, predictable, and relaxing.
Avoid Overstimulation
Overstimulation can make it difficult for your baby to fall asleep. Avoid activities that can make your baby feel excited or stimulate them, such as playing with toys or watching TV. Instead, opt for quiet activities such as reading or singing.
Consider Swaddling
Swaddling can help your baby feel secure and comfortable, making it easier for them to fall asleep. Make sure to swaddle your baby snuggly but not too tight, and ensure that their face is not covered.
What to Do When Your 2 Month Old Refuses to Sleep
Despite your best efforts, your 2-month-old may still refuse to sleep, or wake up frequently at night. Here are some tips to help you soothe your baby back to sleep.
Calming Activities
Some babies may fall back asleep with some soothing activities such as a lullaby, gentle rocking, or patting their back. Avoid picking them up or feeding them immediately, as it can create a sleep association.
Regular Feeding
Some babies may wake up at night because they are hungry. Ensure that your baby is getting enough milk during the day to avoid hunger wake-ups at night. You can also offer small feedings at night to help your baby feel full and sleepy.
Allow Time for Self-Soothing
Allowing your baby to learn how to self-soothe can help them fall back asleep without your intervention. You can encourage self-soothing by placing them in their crib while they are drowsy and allowing them to fall asleep on their own.
Consult with Your Pediatrician
If your baby persists in waking up at night or refuses to sleep, consult your pediatrician. They can rule out any medical conditions and provide helpful tips on sleep training.
Additional Tips for A Better Night Sleep
Here are some additional tips that can help improve your two-month-old’s sleep:
- Ensure that the diaper is clean and dry before bedtime and during nighttime wake-ups
- Avoid feeding your baby immediately before bedtime, as it can create a sleep association
- Expose your baby to natural light during the day, and limit artificial light at night
- Encourage tummy time during the day to promote better sleeping patterns
Most Common Questions and Answers about A 2 Month Old’s Sleep
- How long should a 2-month-old baby sleep?
- Why is my 2-month-old having trouble sleeping?
- Should I let my 2-month-old cry it out?
- Should I wake my 2-month-old baby up during the night to feed?
- How can I get my 2-month-old to fall asleep on their own?
A 2-month-old baby should sleep for around 14-17 hours a day, including several naps during the day and nine to eleven hours at night.
Several factors can contribute to a 2-month-old’s sleeping troubles, including hunger, overstimulation, or poor sleep associations. Consult with your pediatrician if the problem persists.
Experts recommend against letting a 2-month-old cry it out. Rather, you can encourage self-soothing by placing them in their crib while they are drowsy.
If your 2-month-old is a healthy weight and growing well, it’s usually safe to let them sleep for longer stretches during the night without feeding, unless your pediatrician advises otherwise.
You can encourage your 2-month-old to fall asleep on their own by allowing them to self-soothe, by creating a consistent sleep routine, and giving them plenty of tummy time during the day.
Ensuring that your 2-month-old baby is getting enough sleep can be challenging, but it’s crucial for their growth and development. By establishing a consistent sleep routine, creating a relaxing environment, and following the tips listed above, you can promote better sleep patterns for your baby, resulting in a happier, healthier baby and a better-rested parent.
References
1. National Sleep Foundation. How Much Sleep Do Babies and Kids Need?
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Sleep and Sleep Disorders.
3. BabyCenter. Your two-month-old’s sleep.