When To Move Baby Bedtime Earlier

As your baby grows, their sleep patterns will change. In the early months, newborns typically sleep for 16-18 hours per day, waking frequently to feed. Gradually, their sleep patterns will become more regular, and they will start sleeping for longer stretches at night. By around 6 months of age, most babies are sleeping for 12-14 hours per day, including 10-12 hours at night.

As your baby gets older, you may find that they are waking up earlier and earlier in the morning. This can be frustrating for parents, who are often trying to get a good night's sleep themselves. If your baby is consistently waking up before 6 am, it may be time to move their bedtime earlier.

How to Decide if it's Time to Move Bedtime Earlier

There are a few things to consider when deciding if it's time to move your baby's bedtime earlier:

Your baby's age. As mentioned above, most babies are sleeping for 12-14 hours per day by around 6 months of age. If your baby is younger than this, they may not be ready to move to an earlier bedtime.
Your baby's sleep patterns. If your baby is consistently waking up before 6 am, it's a sign that they may be ready for an earlier bedtime. However, if your baby is only waking up early occasionally, it may not be necessary to change their bedtime.
Your own sleep needs. It's important to consider your own sleep needs when deciding if it's time to move your baby's bedtime earlier. If you are struggling to get a good night's sleep, you may want to move your baby's bedtime earlier so that you can get more sleep yourself.

How to Move Baby Bedtime Earlier

If you've decided that it's time to move your baby's bedtime earlier, there are a few things you can do to make the transition smooth:

Start by gradually moving bedtime back in 15-minute increments. Don't try to change your baby's bedtime by an hour or more all at once. Moving their bedtime back in small increments will help them adjust more easily.
Be consistent. Once you've chosen a new bedtime, stick to it as much as possible. Even on weekends, try to keep your baby's bedtime and wake-up time within an hour of their weekday schedule.
Create a relaxing bedtime routine. A relaxing bedtime routine can help your baby wind down and prepare for sleep. A warm bath, a gentle massage, and reading a story are all good ways to help your baby relax before bed.
Make sure your baby's bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool. These conditions are ideal for sleep.
Avoid giving your baby caffeine or sugar before bed. These substances can make it harder for your baby to fall asleep.

Moving your baby's bedtime earlier can be a challenge, but it's worth it if it helps your baby get a good night's sleep. By following these tips, you can help your baby adjust to their new bedtime and get the sleep they need.