YOURS – There are many different ways to take care of your baby. If what you do makes you and the baby happy, its OK. Mom and Dad will get little rest for the first several weeks. Both of you will be tired and crabby. You will get to sleep again eventually, and life really does get better after a few months…..honest. BABY’s – Babies sleep better when they do not sleep in your bedroom. Your baby needs a flat surface to sleep on, like a cradle or crib. Babies should sleep on their side, with a blanket roll at the back for support. Try not to let your baby sleep on his or her belly.

There is some question about whether sleeping on the stomach increases the frequency of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Infants sleeping on their back may have an increased risk of choking on food or mucus. After your baby learns to roll over, how you position him or her doesn’t matter. Your baby will sleep in the position in which he or she is most comfortable. Your baby does not need a pillow, and soft pillows may be dangerous. Get off to a good start by putting your baby down at a regular time f or naps and bedtime. When it is bedtime change and feed your baby. Put your baby down, say “Good night,” and leave. If you make a habit of this from the start, your baby will be quiet and go to sleep.

 For the first few months, pick up and comfort your baby after a few minutes of crying. After six to nine months of age, if your baby cries, go in and comfort him or her. Do not pick the baby up unless you need to feed or change your child. After a few days, when your baby learns that crying does not result in being picked up, he or she will stop crying at nap time or bedtime. BEST ADVICE: Most babies do not sleep through the night for many months; they get hungry, and need food before the morning. But don’t worry, both parents and baby will survive, and this ordeal gives you “bragging rights” when talking to friends and relatives.