Newborn sleep cues

Babies can go from a bit sleepy with the occasional yawn to overtired screaming, within the flick of a switch. 

If you want to help your newborn go to sleep tear-free, you can keep a really close eye out for any sleep cues. In the first few months of their life, their day time routine needs to be flexible, so these cues help you know when it’s time for your baby to sleep.

Early tired cues are the first signs that your baby will soon be ready for a nap or bedtime. They can be really easy to miss, so below is an idea of what to look out for.

Early sleep cues

■ Yawning

■ Fussing

■ Staring

■ Losing interest in people or toys

■ Looking pale

■ Going quiet

■ Having a glazed expression. 

Late tired cues, on the other hand, indicate that your baby is already tired and they need to sleep as soon as possible. Below are some late cues to look out for.

Late sleep cues

■ Rubbing eyes

■ Grimacing

■ Back arching

■ Seeking extra comfort through feeding

■ Not wanting to be put down

■ Vigorous wriggling

■ Crying inconsolably

■ Pulling ears

■ Rubbing their face onto your chest or shoulders 

When babies are overtired, it can make it harder for them to settle down and fall asleep. When you’re trying to avoid overtiredness, it's best for your little one to have a nap as soon as you notice the early tired cues.

If you do end up seeing late tired cues, you can soothe your baby and create a calming sleep environment for them. Help them through feeding, rocking, cuddling, swaddling, white noise, or simply holding them close to you.

If you have a newborn, and you’d like to start gently establishing good habits, begin looking at a routine, or safe sleep advice, please book a free discovery call with me.