It may be reassuring for you to know that it is normal and essential for babies to feed throughout the night in the early weeks and months. Babies grow quickly during this period and need to feed around the clock to meet their needs. There are many different reasons why babies do not sleep. It is normal for a baby not to sleep through the night. Feel confident in yourself to know whether your child is really distressed, uncomfortable (maybe they need changing) or just restless. Trust your instincts and respond to their needs.
Try to establish a regular sleep routine early on by putting them to bed at a regular time (day and night). Place your newborn baby on their back to sleep, in a cot in your bedroom for the first six months. Prepare a warm, comfortable place for them to relax in. Try to avoid always rocking your baby to sleep as this can become a habit. Adult beds are not designed for babies or toddlers and do not conform to safety standards. It is important to breastfeed at night when you produce more hormones in order to build up your milk supply.
You can help your baby to sleep safe and sound by keeping the temperature in their room between 16-20°C. A basic room thermometer will help you to keep an eye on the temperature.
Reading to your child at bedtime helps them to unwind, and gives you some special time together. If your child is scared of the dark, try keeping a night light on.