Newborn (0-8 Weeks) Sleep Schedule
Naps, wake windows, and bedtime
Total daily sleep
16-17 hours
No set schedule yet (sleep is scattered)
Bedtime
No set schedule yet (sleep is scattered)
Wake time
Night sleep
8-9 hours (interrupted by 2-3 feedings)
Naps (4)
Wake windows
45 minutes - 1.5 hours (very short; newborns tire quickly)
Informational only — always check with your doctor or midwife for advice specific to you and your baby.
Tips for this age
- •Follow baby's hunger cues—feed on demand (8-12 times per 24 hours)
- •Newborns have no circadian rhythm yet; day/night confusion is normal
- •Keep nights dark and quiet; daytime bright and social to gradually build rhythm
- •Watch for tiredness cues: yawning, eye rubbing, turning head—put down before overtired
Common challenges
- •Day/night confusion (sleeping more during day than night)
- •Frequent night wakings for feeding and diaper changes
- •Difficulty distinguishing sleep from awake time
- •Feeding and sleep are often intertwined
What changes next
Around 8-12 weeks, your baby's circadian rhythm will begin developing and you'll see the start of a more predictable pattern. Gradually, longer stretches of nighttime sleep become possible.
Plan your day around baby's schedule
Join free to find baby-friendly restaurants, parks, and activities that fit your baby's nap times.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Every pregnancy and baby is different. Always consult your doctor, midwife, or pediatrician for guidance specific to your situation.
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