Your newborn may be waking every hour at night due to a combination of factors, primarily related to hunger and potential day-night confusion.
Here's a breakdown:
Reasons for Frequent Night Wakings
| Reason | Explanation | Possible Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Hunger | Newborns have small stomachs and need frequent feedings. | Ensure your baby is getting enough calories during the day. This may involve more frequent feedings during daylight hours. |
| Day-Night Confusion | Newborns often have their days and nights mixed up. | Work on establishing a routine that clearly differentiates between day and night. Keep the house bright and active during the day, and dark and quiet at night. |
Addressing the Issues:
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Daytime Feeding Focus: According to the provided reference, frequent night wakings may be a sign that the baby needs additional calories during the day. This means focusing on ensuring your baby is well-fed during the daytime hours.
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Establishing a Routine: Help your baby learn the difference between day and night.
- During the day: Keep the environment bright, engage in play, and don't worry too much about noise.
- At night: Keep the environment dark and quiet. Limit interaction to essential tasks like feeding and diaper changes.
By addressing both hunger and day-night confusion, you can help your newborn sleep for longer stretches at night.
