How can I help my baby sleep longer stretches at night?

Gentle steps to encourage longer night sleep

Helping a baby sleep longer often combines establishing day-night cues, consistent bedtime routines, and ensuring feeding needs are met. Expect gradual progress rather than immediate big changes.

Strategies to try:

• Differentiate days from nights: brighter, active daytime; quiet and dim lighting at night.
• Create a calming pre-sleep routine and put the baby down drowsy but awake.
• Ensure full feedings in the evening so the baby is less likely to wake from hunger.
• Encourage daytime naps so the baby doesn’t become overtired, which can cause fragmented sleep.

Manage expectations and safety

Many babies still wake to feed at night for several months. Avoid pressure to achieve long stretches immediately; follow safe sleep practices and consult a pediatrician before using sleep training for babies under 4 months. If frequent night waking seems excessive or is linked to poor weight gain, check with your healthcare provider to rule out medical causes.