Babies and Sleep Directory
Bringing home a new baby often means moms and dads get very little sleep for the first few months. A newborn can sleep for 16 hours a day. Unfortunately, newborns only snooze in stretches of about 3 to 4 hours at a time because they get hungry. Many doctors say you shouldn't let your baby sleep too long between feedings. But rest assured, your sleep deprivation will eventually subside. Every baby has its own sleep patterns, but most start sleeping through the night by age 2 to 3 months. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about babies and sleep, what's normal, what's not, and much more.
Medical Reference
Sleep Problems in Children
WebMD explains how to recognize sleep problems in your child and what you can do about it.
Ways to Treat Colic
If your baby has colic, learn ways to ease the crying, including changes in diet, feeding tips, and the use of motion to soothe your baby.
How Much Sleep Do Children Need?
Wondering how much sleep your infant, older child, or teenager need? WebMD provides guidelines.
How to Set Good Sleep Patterns for Your Baby
WebMD's guide to your baby's sleep habits.
Features
A Separate Bed For Baby
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), any child under the age of two should not sleep in an adult bed. The result could be deadly, says a study published by CPSC researchers in the October 1999 issue of the Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine.
Move Over, Mom and Dad
Mention 'family bed' or 'shared sleeping' at any playgroup or cocktail party, and you're likely to spark a flurry of responses.
No-Nonsense Napping Guide for Toddlers
Experts explain why toddlers need naps and share tips for getting toddlers to sleep.
Tackling Toddler Sleep Problems
WebMD explains common toddler sleep problems, how much sleep toddlers really need, and how to conquer bedtime with your toddler.
Video
Are Your Children Sleep Deprived?
Most American adults can admit to not getting enough sleep, but are your children sleep deprived as well?
Baby Sleep Basics
Get the facts you need about baby sleep patterns so you can get the sleep you need.
Newborn Sleep Tips
Those first few weeks with a new baby can be a blur because of their erratic sleep cycles. Understanding newborn rhythms can help.
Baby Sleep: Co-sleeping vs. Crib
Should your baby sleep with you or alone? It’s a family decision.
Slideshows & Images
Help Baby Nap Better
Learn how to get your baby napping on a schedule so he gets the sleep he needs. See what's normal and find tricks for helping baby fall asleep.
Children Sleep Problems
Is your kid up all night? See the top reasons children can't sleep -- including you. Blame snoring, nightmares, sleep apnea, or you!