Skip to main content

How to get your baby to sleep

Reading time: 0-5 minutes

Explore this article's topics:


Sleeping Sleeping tips

Few babies sleep through the night. That might not be much comfort, but it lets you know you’re not alone! Once your wee one gets to 2-3 months old you can start to get them into a routine so they know it’s sleepy time. Here are some tips from other parents on getting a bedtime routine, and other ways to help your baby sleep.

Top baby sleep tips from parents

What the professionals say

“No matter how sleepy babies are, they can't fall asleep if they are worked up. You may have to help your baby calm down and relax so they can fall asleep. Cuddling, rocking, stroking, patting and talking gently are all good ways to calm your baby so that sleepiness can take over.”

Professor Helen Ball, Professor of Anthropology

More information

Ready Steady Baby has lots more information on helping your baby sleep and how to get into a routine. If you think your baby’s not settling at night because of a health issue, contact your GP or health visitor for help.

Sleep problems during the coronavirus pandemic

You may have found that your wee one’s sleeping patterns have become more disturbed since the coronavirus pandemic started. This could be because lockdown restrictions have made it harder for everyone in your family to get out and about and burn off energy. Or it could be because groups and activities you usually attend together have been closed.

If your child has additional support needs, you may be finding it even harder if you haven’t been able to get the same level of support and respite you did before the pandemic started. If this is the case for you, you’re not alone, and there is support out there and the following organisations can all help:

Cry-sis offer help and support to parents with babies who cry excessively or have sleeping problems. They have a helpline you can call on 08451 228 669.

Sleep Scotland offer support to improve sleep habits for children and young people. Email sleepsupport@sleepscotland.org to get in touch or visit their website.

Twins Trust have advice on sleep if you have twins, triplets or more.

Last updated: 13 Jun, 2022