You bring your little bundle of joy home from the hospital.
As new parents you're probably thinking now what? You've read all the baby books out there.
Every family member has given you words of advice.
Now is the time to put what you know into action.
So take it easy and relax a little bit, were going to talk about your baby's sleep habits.
Your little one will probably sleep a total of sixteen to eighteen hours a day.
Of course, the sleep time will be broken up into four or five episodes.
This can be a great time for mom to grab a little nap as well.
Babies usually sleep longer during the night than through out the day.
By two months of age, your newborn will start sleeping through the night usually lasting at least five hours.
This gives the new parents a chance to get some rest and to return to a more normal sleep pattern.
By the time your child turns one year of age, they'll sleep twelve to fourteen hours per day.
They will have a long sleep period at night and usually a morning and afternoon nap.
There are ways to make sleep time a little easier for you and your baby.
Do place your infant on their back during nap time.
In the 1990s the "Back to Sleep" campaign educated parents about reducing the incidence of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Deaths from SIDS has dropped considerably, down 40%.
Since more babies are lying on their backs, they may have flat spots or flat head syndrome.
You can help to prevent this condition by changing your baby's head position, alternating the position from one night to the next.
Let your baby sleep near you but not with you.
Your baby needs a bed of their own, just as you do.
A family bed is not safe for your baby! Your infant should be sleeping in a crib that meets safety standards.
Do use a firm mattress.
Also make sure the sheet fits the mattress, keep it form fitting and snug.
Remove objects and soft bedding from your baby's bed.
A sleep sack, made of natural or organic fabric, is a great choice for keeping your little one safe and warm during sleep time.
When your baby is awake, provide plenty of "tummy time".
Give your little one ample space to move, kick and stretch.
Limit the time your child spends in a swing, carrier or car seats.
I used to love to watch my children sleep.
So sweet and innocent, its a shame they grow up so fast.
Enjoy every minute while you can.
Unfortunately, you can not turn back the hands of time to recapture those special moments.