Big idea: Newborn sleep is fragmented by design. Rhythm emerges through maturation + consistent cues, not “training.”

Newborn stage (roughly 0–12 weeks): irregular sleep, frequent waking, variable naps, feeding-driven cycles are normal.
Circadian rhythm: develops gradually; daytime light + nighttime darkness helps set cues.
Sleep pressure: builds with awake time; too much awake time can cause overtired stress.
Temperament matters: some babies need more sensory support and slower transitions.

Teaching script (client-friendly): “Your baby isn’t broken—this is biology. Our goal is to support regulation and build gentle cues so rhythm emerges.”

Quick “Normal vs. Not Normal” Lens

Often normal: cluster feeding, short naps, contact naps, frequent waking, uneven days/nights early on.
Check in: poor feeding/weight gain, persistent extreme lethargy, breathing concerns, bluish color, fever in young infant.

Big idea: Wake windows are ranges, not rules. Cues matter more than the clock—especially in newborns.

Early cues: zoning out, losing interest, slowing movements, red eyebrows, subtle fussing.
Late cues: crying, arching, frantic hands, “wired” look—harder to settle.
Overtired cycle: stress hormones can make it harder to fall/stay asleep → shorter naps → more overtiredness.

Teaching script: “We’re aiming for ‘sleepy but not stressed.’ Early cues are your best friend.”

Settling Sequence (Gentle)

Reduce stimulation (dim lights / quiet voice)
Containment (hands to chest/arms, swaddle if safe + appropriate)
Motion (slow sway/rock), then stillness
Sound (steady shush/white noise)
Pause for 20–40 seconds before changing strategy

Big idea: Contact naps are common and often biologically protective in early weeks. Independence can be supported gently over time.

Why contact naps happen: warmth, movement, scent, heartbeat—all regulation inputs.
Not a “bad habit” in newborns: it’s a nervous system strategy.
Gentle progression: start with “one nap a day” in the sleep space, or “transfer practice” when baby is deeply asleep.

Transfer Tips (without drama)

Warm the sleep surface (remove heat source before placing baby)
Lower baby slowly, bottom first, keep hand on chest for 30–60 seconds
Try transfers when baby is in deeper sleep (limp arms, slower breathing)

Big idea: The environment can either support regulation or silently sabotage it.

Light: bright days, dim evenings; dark at night for circadian cues.
Sound: steady background noise can help mask disruptions.
Temperature: avoid overheating; aim for comfortable, not warm.
Transitions: babies often struggle with “fast changes.” Slow down the handoff from awake → sleep.

Teaching script: “We’re building a nervous-system-friendly sleep space, not a perfect Pinterest nursery.”

Environment Audit (Quick)

Room dark enough for naps?
Consistent sound?
Baby comfortable (not sweaty, not cold)?
Overstimulation sources (bright toys, TV noise, harsh lights)?
Clear bedtime “cue” routine (2–5 minutes is enough)?

Big idea: Sleep improves when regulation improves. Regulation improves through repetitive, predictable co-regulation.

Co-regulation: your calm voice, steady touch, consistent responses teach safety.
Overstimulation: can look like fussing, “fighting sleep,” frequent wake-ups.
Understimulation: can look like long wake windows without sleep cues and later meltdowns.

Parent Calm Tools (Fast)

Exhale longer than inhale (2–3 rounds)
Lower your shoulders + soften your jaw
Slow the movement (babies match your tempo)

Anchor bedtime: consistent wind-down cues, even if time varies.
Day structure: morning light + feeds + age-appropriate awake time.
One change at a time: avoid stacking interventions.
“This week” focus: pick 2 anchors and ignore the rest.

Teacher line: “We’re supporting sleep readiness and reducing friction—not forcing independence.”

Infant Sleep Study Library

Core Curriculum