Understanding Your Baby's Sleep: Insights from Sleep Sense
- Taryn van der Westhuizen
- May 21
- 3 min read
Updated: May 30
Sleep is one of the most talked-about topics for new parents—and for good reason! A well-rested baby often means a more content household. Yet many parents find themselves navigating sleepless nights, frequent wake-ups, and uncertainty about what’s “normal.”
At Nurtured Growth Therapy, I support families in understanding all areas of child development—including sleep. Today, I want to share insights inspired by Meg Faure’s Sleep Sense, a gentle, evidence-informed approach to supporting healthy sleep patterns in babies.
The Importance of Sleep for Babies
Sleep is vital for your baby’s brain development, emotional regulation, immune system, and overall wellbeing. Good sleep doesn’t just happen. It’s a skill that develops gradually, much like crawling or talking.
According to Meg Faure, good sleep habits in infancy set the foundation for positive developmental outcomes later on. However, every baby is different, and sleep development is not linear.
The Three Key Influencers of Baby Sleep
Meg Faure’s approach highlights three major influences on your baby’s sleep:
Sensory Threshold: Some babies are more sensitive to noise, light, textures, or movement. A baby with a low sensory threshold may need a quieter, more predictable environment to sleep well. Understanding your baby’s sensory preferences can help you create the right sleep space for them.
Emotional State: A baby’s emotional wellbeing plays a key role in how easily they settle and stay asleep. If your baby is overtired, overstimulated, or anxious (especially during separation), it can impact their ability to wind down. Calm and nurturing routines are important for building a sense of safety and connection, both vital for restful sleep.
Routine and Rhythm: Babies thrive on predictability. A consistent daily rhythm helps their body clock adjust and promotes more regular sleep patterns. This doesn’t mean rigid schedules, but rather following a flexible, responsive rhythm—especially during the early months.
Sleep Development by Age
Understanding your baby's sleep patterns can help you support their development. Here's a quick overview of what to expect in the first year:
0–3 Months: The 4th Trimester
Newborns sleep between 14–17 hours across 24 hours, often in short stretches.
They do not yet have a set day/night rhythm.
Focus on bonding, feeding, and responding to your baby’s cues.
Try not to stress about “bad habits” during this time; it’s all about building trust.
3–6 Months: Beginning to Settle
Sleep may start to consolidate. Some babies begin sleeping longer at night.
Gentle routines can start to support sleep cues (e.g., bath, massage, story, feed).
Watch for awake windows—your baby may only manage 1.5–2 hours awake between sleeps.
6–9 Months: Sleep Patterns Shift
Daytime naps may reduce to 2–3 per day.
Separation anxiety may emerge, impacting night wakings.
Consistent bedtime routines and comfort during wake-ups can support sleep continuity.
9–12 Months: Learning to Self-Soothe
Your baby may begin developing self-settling strategies (e.g., thumb sucking, cuddling a comfort item).
Sleep regressions can occur around 8–10 months due to developmental leaps.
Stay calm and connected—your baby’s brain is working hard!
Gentle Sleep Tips from Sleep Sense
Here are some gentle guidelines you can follow to promote better sleep for your baby:
Respond sensitively: Meeting your baby’s needs consistently builds trust and emotional security.
Tune into your baby’s cues: Look for signs of tiredness like eye rubbing, fussiness, or turning away.
Create a calm bedtime routine: Keep it predictable, gentle, and loving.
Avoid overtiredness: An overtired baby is less likely to sleep well.
Be consistent, not rigid: Babies love predictability, but every day doesn’t have to look the same.
When to Seek Extra Support
If sleep challenges are ongoing and impacting your family’s wellbeing, you’re not alone—and support is available. Sleep can be affected by sensory sensitivities, feeding issues, reflux, or neurodevelopmental needs. A holistic approach is key.
At Nurtured Growth Therapy, I work with families to understand the why behind sleep difficulties and support babies' development in a way that feels safe, nurturing, and aligned with your values.
Final Thoughts
Sleep is a journey, not a race. Your baby is growing, learning, and adjusting to the world one day at a time. With gentle guidance, supportive routines, and lots of love—you’re laying the foundation for healthy sleep and emotional wellbeing in the years ahead.
If you’d like more individualized support with sleep, sensory needs, or daily routines, I’m here to help. You can find Get In Touch for a chat or explore how occupational therapy might support your baby’s development.
