How Long Should a 2-Month-Old Baby Sleep?

2021-12-04

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The first few months of a baby's life are a time of great change and adjustment. As a new parent, you're probably wondering about everything from feeding to sleeping. One of the most common questions parents have is, "How long should my 2-month-old baby sleep?"

The answer to this question isn't always easy, as every baby is different. However, there are some general guidelines that can help you get a sense of what's normal. In this article, we'll discuss the average amount of sleep for 2-month-olds, as well as some tips for helping your baby sleep better.

As a general rule, 2-month-olds should get about 14-17 hours of sleep per day. This sleep is typically divided into several naps throughout the day and a longer stretch of sleep at night. Of course, there will be some variation from baby to baby. Some babies may sleep more or less than average, and some may have more frequent or less frequent naps. However, if you're concerned about your baby's sleep, it's always a good idea to talk to your doctor.

How Long Should 2 Month Old Sleep

Newborns need plenty of sleep to grow and develop properly.

Average sleep: 14-17 hours per day
Daytime naps: several short naps
Nighttime sleep: longer stretch of sleep
Individual variation: some babies sleep more or less
Concerns: talk to doctor if worried about baby's sleep
Create a bedtime routine
Make sure baby's sleep environment is safe and comfortable
Avoid waking baby during sleep

By following these tips, you can help your 2-month-old baby get the sleep they need to thrive.

Average sleep: 14-17 hours per day

Newborn babies need a lot of sleep to grow and develop properly. On average, 2-month-olds should get about 14-17 hours of sleep per day. This sleep is typically divided into several naps throughout the day and a longer stretch of sleep at night.

Daytime naps: Most 2-month-olds take several short naps throughout the day, each lasting 30-60 minutes. The number of naps your baby takes will vary, but most babies will take 3-4 naps per day.

Nighttime sleep: At night, 2-month-olds typically sleep for a longer stretch of time, usually 5-6 hours. However, it's common for babies this age to wake up once or twice during the night to feed or have their diaper changed.

It's important to note that there is some variation in the amount of sleep that babies need. Some babies may sleep more or less than average, and some may have more frequent or less frequent naps. As long as your baby is healthy and growing well, you don't need to worry if they don't fit perfectly into these averages.

If you're concerned about your baby's sleep, it's always a good idea to talk to your doctor. They can help you determine if your baby is getting enough sleep and offer tips for helping your baby sleep better.

Daytime naps: several short naps

Most 2-month-olds take several short naps throughout the day, each lasting 30-60 minutes. The number of naps your baby takes will vary, but most babies will take 3-4 naps per day.

Daytime naps are important for 2-month-olds because they help them to consolidate memories, learn new skills, and regulate their emotions. Napping also helps to prevent babies from becoming overtired, which can lead to fussiness and difficulty sleeping at night.

To help your baby get the naps they need, you can create a regular nap schedule and make sure their sleep environment is dark, quiet, and cool. You can also try swaddling your baby or using a white noise machine to help them fall asleep.

If your baby is having trouble napping during the day, talk to your doctor. They can help you rule out any medical problems that may be interfering with your baby's sleep and offer additional tips for helping your baby sleep better.

Here are some additional tips for helping your 2-month-old get the naps they need:

Put your baby down for naps at the same time each day.
Create a relaxing bedtime routine that includes a warm bath, a massage, and a story.
Make sure your baby's bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
Swaddle your baby or use a sleep sack to help them feel secure.
Try using a white noise machine or a fan to block out noise.
Avoid waking your baby during sleep.

Nighttime sleep: longer stretch of sleep

At night, 2-month-olds typically sleep for a longer stretch of time, usually 5-6 hours. However, it's common for babies this age to wake up once or twice during the night to feed or have their diaper changed.

Benefits of nighttime sleep: Nighttime sleep is important for 2-month-olds because it helps them to consolidate memories, learn new skills, and regulate their emotions. Getting a good night's sleep also helps babies to wake up feeling refreshed and ready to learn and play.
Helping your baby sleep longer at night: There are a few things you can do to help your baby sleep longer at night:
Create a regular bedtime routine and stick to it as much as possible, even on weekends.
Make sure your baby's bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
Avoid playing with your baby or stimulating them too much before bedtime.
Swaddle your baby or use a sleep sack to help them feel secure.
Try using a white noise machine or a fan to block out noise.

If your baby is having trouble sleeping longer at night, talk to your doctor. They can help you rule out any medical problems that may be interfering with your baby's sleep and offer additional tips for helping your baby sleep better.

Individual variation: some babies sleep more or less

As we mentioned earlier, there is some variation in the amount of sleep that babies need. Some babies may sleep more or less than average, and some may have more frequent or less frequent naps. This is perfectly normal. As long as your baby is healthy and growing well, you don't need to worry if they don't fit perfectly into these averages.

There are a few factors that can affect how much sleep a baby needs, including:

Temperament: Some babies are simply more active and alert than others. These babies may need less sleep than babies who are more laid-back and easygoing.
Health: Babies who are sick or have medical conditions may need more sleep than healthy babies.
Environment: Babies who live in noisy or chaotic environments may have trouble sleeping. Babies who have a regular bedtime routine and a quiet, dark bedroom may sleep better.

If you're concerned about your baby's sleep, talk to your doctor. They can help you determine if your baby is getting enough sleep and offer tips for helping your baby sleep better.

Here are some tips for helping your baby get the sleep they need, even if they are a little different from the averages:

Pay attention to your baby's cues. When your baby is tired, they will start to show signs, such as yawning, rubbing their eyes, or fussing. Put your baby down to sleep when you see these cues.
Create a regular bedtime routine and stick to it as much as possible, even on weekends.
Make sure your baby's bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
Avoid playing with your baby or stimulating them too much before bedtime.
Swaddle your baby or use a sleep sack to help them feel secure.
Try using a white noise machine or a fan to block out noise.
Be patient. It may take some time for your baby to adjust to a new sleep schedule or routine.

Concerns: talk to doctor if worried about baby's sleep

Not getting enough sleep: If your baby is consistently sleeping less than the recommended amount, they may not be getting enough sleep. Signs of sleep deprivation in babies include fussiness, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and problems with feeding.
Sleeping too much: Some babies may sleep more than the recommended amount. This is usually not a cause for concern, but it's important to talk to your doctor if you're worried.
Frequent waking: It's normal for babies to wake up once or twice during the night to feed or have their diaper changed. However, if your baby is waking up more frequently than this, it may be a sign of a problem.
Difficulty falling asleep: If your baby is having trouble falling asleep at night or for naps, this may be a sign of a sleep disorder.

Other signs that you should talk to your doctor about your baby's sleep include:

Snoring
Gasping or choking during sleep
Night terrors
Sleepwalking
Excessive sweating during sleep

If you're concerned about any of these issues, talk to your doctor. They can help you determine if there is a problem and recommend the best course of treatment.

Create a bedtime routine

A bedtime routine is a series of calming activities that you do with your baby before bed. This routine helps to signal to your baby that it's time to wind down and get ready for sleep.

A typical bedtime routine might include:

Bath: A warm bath can be a relaxing way to help your baby wind down before bed.
Massage: A gentle massage can help to soothe your baby and promote relaxation.
Storytime: Reading a book to your baby is a great way to bond with them and help them to relax.
Lullaby: Singing a lullaby or playing soft music can help to create a calming atmosphere.
Rocking or cuddling: Rocking or cuddling your baby can help them to feel secure and loved.

The most important thing is to create a routine that works for you and your baby. Be consistent with your routine and start it early enough so that your baby has time to wind down before bed.

Here are some additional tips for creating a successful bedtime routine:

Start your routine at the same time each night and stick to it as much as possible, even on weekends.
Keep your routine short and simple. Aim for about 20-30 minutes.
Avoid stimulating activities, such as playing rough games or watching TV, in the hour before bedtime.
Make sure your baby's bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
Be patient. It may take some time for your baby to adjust to a new bedtime routine.

With a little patience and consistency, you can help your baby to develop good sleep habits that will last a lifetime.

Make sure baby's sleep environment is safe and comfortable

Your baby's sleep environment plays an important role in their ability to get a good night's sleep. Here are a few things you can do to make sure your baby's sleep environment is safe and comfortable:

Use a firm mattress: A soft mattress can increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Choose a firm mattress that is specifically designed for infants.
Keep the crib clear: Remove all pillows, blankets, toys, and other objects from the crib. These items can pose a suffocation hazard to your baby.
Dress your baby in light, comfortable clothing: Avoid dressing your baby in heavy or bulky clothing, as this can make it difficult for them to sleep.
Maintain a comfortable room temperature: The ideal room temperature for sleep is between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit.

Here are some additional tips for creating a safe and comfortable sleep environment for your baby:

Make sure your baby's crib meets current safety standards.
Place your baby's crib away from windows, heaters, and other potential hazards.
Use a white noise machine or a fan to block out noise.
Keep your baby's bedroom dark at night.
Avoid smoking in your baby's bedroom.

By following these tips, you can help to create a safe and comfortable sleep environment for your baby that will promote good sleep.

Avoid waking baby during sleep

Once your baby is asleep, it's important to avoid waking them up. Even a brief interruption can make it difficult for your baby to fall back asleep.

Be quiet: Keep your voice low and avoid making loud noises while your baby is sleeping.
Avoid bright lights: Keep the lights dim in your baby's room while they are sleeping.
Don't change your baby's diaper unless it's necessary: If you do need to change your baby's diaper, try to do it quickly and quietly.
Don't pick your baby up unless they are crying: If your baby stirs or makes noise in their sleep, don't pick them up unless they are crying. Wait a few minutes to see if they will settle down on their own.

Here are some additional tips for avoiding waking your baby during sleep:

Put your baby down to sleep drowsy but awake. This will help them to learn to fall asleep on their own.
Create a consistent bedtime routine and stick to it as much as possible. This will help your baby to learn when it's time to sleep.
Make sure your baby's bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
Use a white noise machine or a fan to block out noise.
Avoid playing with your baby or stimulating them too much before bedtime.

By following these tips, you can help your baby to get the sleep they need to grow and thrive.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about how long 2-month-olds should sleep:

Question 1: How much sleep do 2-month-olds need?
Answer: On average, 2-month-olds need about 14-17 hours of sleep per day. This sleep is typically divided into several naps throughout the day and a longer stretch of sleep at night.

Question 2: How long should a 2-month-old's naps be?
Answer: Most 2-month-olds take several short naps throughout the day, each lasting 30-60 minutes. The number of naps your baby takes will vary, but most babies will take 3-4 naps per day.

Question 3: How long should a 2-month-old sleep at night?
Answer: At night, 2-month-olds typically sleep for a longer stretch of time, usually 5-6 hours. However, it's common for babies this age to wake up once or twice during the night to feed or have their diaper changed.

Question 4: Is it okay if my 2-month-old sleeps more or less than average?
Answer: Yes, it's perfectly normal for some babies to sleep more or less than average. As long as your baby is healthy and growing well, you don't need to worry if they don't fit perfectly into these averages.

Question 5: What can I do to help my 2-month-old sleep better?
Answer: There are a few things you can do to help your 2-month-old sleep better, such as creating a regular bedtime routine, making sure their sleep environment is safe and comfortable, and avoiding waking them up during sleep.

Question 6: When should I talk to my doctor about my baby's sleep?
Answer: You should talk to your doctor if you're concerned about your baby's sleep, such as if they are not getting enough sleep, sleeping too much, waking up frequently, or having difficulty falling asleep.

Question 7: How can I transition my 2-month-old from sleeping in a bassinet to a crib?
Answer: You can start by introducing the crib to your baby during playtime. Once they are familiar with it, you can start putting them down for naps in the crib. Be patient and consistent, and eventually, your baby will transition to sleeping in the crib full-time.

Closing Paragraph for FAQ: If you have any other questions about your 2-month-old's sleep, talk to your doctor. They can help you determine if your baby is getting enough sleep and offer tips for helping your baby sleep better.

In addition to the tips provided in the FAQ, here are a few more things you can do to help your 2-month-old get the sleep they need:

Tips

Here are a few practical tips to help your 2-month-old get the sleep they need:

Tip 1: Create a regular bedtime routine. A bedtime routine helps to signal to your baby that it's time to wind down and get ready for sleep. Start your routine about 30 minutes before bedtime and include calming activities such as a bath, a massage, and reading a book.

Tip 2: Make sure your baby's sleep environment is safe and comfortable. Your baby's sleep environment plays an important role in their ability to get a good night's sleep. Make sure your baby's crib meets current safety standards, that the room is dark, quiet, and cool, and that your baby is dressed in light, comfortable clothing.

Tip 3: Avoid waking your baby during sleep. Once your baby is asleep, it's important to avoid waking them up. Even a brief interruption can make it difficult for your baby to fall back asleep. Be quiet, keep the lights dim, and avoid changing your baby's diaper unless it's necessary.

Tip 4: Be patient. It takes time for babies to learn how to sleep well. Don't get discouraged if your baby doesn't adjust to a new sleep schedule or routine right away. Be patient and consistent, and eventually, your baby will learn to sleep through the night.

Closing Paragraph for Tips: Remember, every baby is different and what works for one baby may not work for another. The most important thing is to be patient, consistent, and to create a safe and comfortable sleep environment for your baby.

With a little patience and effort, you can help your 2-month-old get the sleep they need to grow and thrive.

Conclusion

In this article, we've discussed how much sleep 2-month-olds need, how to help them sleep better, and what to do if you're concerned about your baby's sleep.

Remember, every baby is different and what works for one baby may not work for another. The most important thing is to be patient, consistent, and to create a safe and comfortable sleep environment for your baby.

Here are some key points to remember:

On average, 2-month-olds need about 14-17 hours of sleep per day.
Most 2-month-olds take several short naps throughout the day, each lasting 30-60 minutes.
At night, 2-month-olds typically sleep for a longer stretch of time, usually 5-6 hours.
It's normal for some babies to sleep more or less than average.
You can help your baby sleep better by creating a regular bedtime routine, making sure their sleep environment is safe and comfortable, and avoiding waking them up during sleep.
If you're concerned about your baby's sleep, talk to your doctor.

Closing Message: With a little patience and effort, you can help your 2-month-old get the sleep they need to grow and thrive. Remember, every baby is different and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Just keep trying different things until you find what works best for your baby.