Newborns are more active at night because their sleep-wake cycles are not yet established. They don't yet understand the difference between day and night, and their internal clocks are still developing. As a result, they may sleep just as much during the day as they do at night. Additionally, newborns spend a significant portion of their sleep time in REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, which is a more active stage of sleep characterized by rapid eye movements, increased brain activity, and muscle twitching.
Here are some additional reasons why newborns may be more active at night:
- Feeding: Newborns need to be fed frequently, especially during the night. They may wake up to signal their need for food.
- Comfort: Newborns are often comforted by being held and rocked. This is why they may be more active at night when they are alone in their cribs.
- Development: Newborns are constantly developing, and this can lead to changes in their sleep patterns. As they grow and mature, their sleep cycles will become more regular.
It's important to note that every baby is different, and some may be more active at night than others. If you're concerned about your baby's sleep patterns, talk to your pediatrician.
