Newborn (0-8 Weeks) Sleep Schedule
Naps, wake windows, and bedtime
Total daily sleep
16-17 hours
No set bedtime yet - follow baby's cues
Bedtime
No set wake time yet - baby wakes for feeds
Wake time
Night sleep
8-9 hours (fragmented, 2-4 hour stretches with 2-3 night feeds typical)
Naps (4)
Wake windows
45 minutes - 1.5 hours (very short, baby tires 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 and tiredness cues - no strict schedule needed yet
- •Expect frequent night feeds (every 2-4 hours) - this is normal and necessary
- •Create a calm sleep environment with dim lighting, white noise, and safe sleep surface
- •Watch for tired cues (yawning, eye rubbing, fussiness) and put baby down before overtiredness sets in
- •Distinguish between day and night by keeping days bright and nights dark and quiet
Common challenges
- •Day/night confusion - newborns don't distinguish between day and night yet
- •Frequent wake-ups - newborns need to feed every 2-4 hours around the clock
- •Difficulty self-soothing - newborns need caregiver support to settle
- •Unpredictable sleep patterns - no two days look the same
What changes next
Around 8-12 weeks, your baby will start to develop more predictable patterns. By 3-4 months, you can begin establishing a loose bedtime routine and may see longer consolidated night sleep beginning to emerge.
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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