Newborns typically need about 14-17 hours of sleep each day, but they often sleep in short bursts. Common challenges include difficulty sleeping on their backs, confusing day and night sleep patterns, and adjusting to a bedtime routine. It's a learning process for parents and babies to establish healthy sleep habits during these first few months.

Back-sleeping is recommended because it significantly reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). If your baby seems to resist sleeping on their back, try swaddling them or using a pacifier to soothe them.

To help your baby understand the difference between day and night, keep daytime naps to no longer than three hours and clearly distinguish between day and night environments. During the day, engage with your baby in a brightly lit room, and at night, keep the environment dark and calm to signal that it's time for longer sleep periods.

Teaching your baby to fall asleep independently involves creating a consistent bedtime routine and finding new sleep associations, like the sound of white noise. Be prepared for some resistance at first, and don't hesitate to try different soothing techniques until you find what works best for your baby.

Watch for signs of sleepiness throughout the day and avoid scheduling outings too close to nap times. Ensure your baby's sleeping environment is comfortable, consistent, and conducive to rest. Adjust your baby's schedule to prioritize adequate sleep, ensuring they're well-rested and happy.

As babies grow, they may start resisting naps. If appropriate, consider transitioning to one nap per day. Watch for signs of tiredness and adjust the nap schedule based on your baby's energy levels. Every baby is different, so be mindful of individual nap needs and be flexible as you find the right balance.

The ABCs stand for Alone, Back, and Crib. Always place your baby alone in their crib, on their back, on a firm mattress. Ensure no loose blankets, pillows, or soft objects could cover the baby's face. Maintaining a smoke-free environment is also crucial for promoting safe sleep for your infant.

To reduce the risk, ensure your baby is immunized, breastfeed for at least six months if possible, always place your baby on their back to sleep, avoid loose bedding and soft objects in the crib, and consider room-sharing (but not bed-sharing) for the first six months. These practices have been shown to decrease the risk of sleep-related deaths significantly.