Understanding Infant Sleep: What’s normal and how we can help

Human babies are born with beautifully complex, rapidly developing brains. In fact, a large amount of brain growth occurs in the first 12 months of life, and this process requires significant energy – much of which happens during sleep.

Although babies often sleep many hours across a 24-hour period, they are not designed to sleep in long, uninterrupted stretches early on. Their small stomachs require frequent feeding, and biologically they are primed to stay close to a caregiver for warmth, safety and nourishment, both day and night. Waking is not a sign that something is wrong – it is a normal and protective feature of infancy.

It’s also important to know that sleep needs vary widely between babies. Some may need as little as 9-10 hours in a day, while others require 15-16 hours. Over time, sleep gradually consolidates. By around 12 months, about half of infants can sleep for eight hours without signalling to their parents, increasing to around 95% by two years of age.

Infant sleep is a common source of stress for families. Understanding the biology of sleep, your baby’s temperament, and the two key sleep regulators – sleep pressure and circadian rhythms – can help you navigate this stage with greater confidence.

Neuroprotective Developmental Care (also known as the Possums approach) is an evidence-based, responsive, attachment-focused framework that supports infant sleep, feeding and family wellbeing. We’re fortunate in the Illawarra to have health professionals trained in this model.

If you’re concerned about your baby’s sleep, a one-hour comprehensive sleep support consult at Bulli Medical Practice can provide guidance tailored to your family’s values, goals and unique circumstances.

To book an appointment, call 4284 4622 or book online via HotDoc.