Having a newborn means getting little sleep – this is a given.  So every little trick to give you a few more minutes sleep can make the world of difference.

Here are a few helpful newborn baby tips that just might give you a little more sleep:

-When you are putting sheets on your baby’s crib mattress, layer as follows:  Waterproof pad, sheet, waterproof pad, sheet.  If your baby’s diaper leaks during the night, changing the crib bedding is a breeze.  Simply peel off the first layer and voila – a freshly made crib!

-When your newborn naps during the day, keep the light on and don’t make an effort to keep the house quiet.  At night, turn off the lights and be quiet, helping the baby to distinguish day from night.

-Honestly, it is best to put your baby to bed awake.  This teaches your baby to fall asleep without the use of a pacifier, bottle or breast.  In the real world, is this the easiest tip on the list?  Of course not – but do what you can when you can to help baby learn to fall asleep alone.

-Mom, sleep with a crib sheet tucked in your shirt or under your head so it will smell exactly like you.  Then use the sheet the next evening so your baby will smell Mommy while he or she is ready to fall asleep.

-Do your best to start a nighttime routine with your baby.  A nice bath, even reading a book softly and dimming the lights slowly – all of these will help to make baby aware that nighttime is near and it is time to fall asleep.