Alvin Banks

You’re probably here because you can’t get your little one to sleep. You’re not alone — many parents have been there, wondering what to do next. While every baby is different, there are some tried-and-tested tips that can help your baby sleep faster.

How Much Sleep Does a Baby Need?

Nighttime sleep requirements vary depending on age. Here’s a summary of sleep needs:

• Newborn and 1 month old: Eight to nine hours
• 3 months old: Nine to 10 hours
• 6 months old: 10 hours
• 9 months to 2 years old: 11 hours

How to Help Your Baby Fall Asleep

Your baby feels most secure when you’re with them. Here are ways to help your little one sleep soundly.

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1.   Offer a Pacifier

Pacifiers can help calm a fussy baby and may come in handy when they’re still active during bedtime. Only consider this tip if you’ve tried rocking or changing your infant’s position. Replace pacifiers often and avoid attaching them to a strap to ensure your little one’s safety.

2.   Establish a Bedtime Routine

At night, a “feed-play-sleep” routine may help your baby drift into slumber easily. Usually, an infant feels alert after feeding and a diaper change. Take this opportunity to read them bedtime stories, which can help calm their minds and bodies, signaling it’s time to get ready for sleep. Pay attention to tired signs like yawning or frowning, and give them a goodnight kiss.

3.   Dim the Lights

Overstimulation makes it hard for you to sleep, and it’s no different for your little one. Dim the lights before bedtime to signal to your baby it’s time to slow down. Close the windows or use blackout curtains to block out morning light and give your child uninterrupted sleep.

4.   Sing a Lullaby

Singing lullabies is a great way to help your baby sleep faster. If your parents, grandparents or guardian used to sing to you, ask them the songs they sang to lull you to sleep, and do the same for your little one. Choose one with repetitive lyrics and keep your voice low when singing. If you’re feeling creative, use real-life images or characters to create your own lullaby.

5.   Swaddle Your Baby

If your baby can’t sleep unless held, try swaddling. It boosts their feelings of safety and comfort, mimicking physical contact. Use a lightweight fabric that won’t cover your infant’s face and restrict their breathing. Secure the swaddle so it won’t loosen during the night. Place your child on their back after being swaddled to keep them safe. If you’re still unsure about the steps, consider a velcro swaddle.

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What Should You Do if Your Baby Still Refuses to Sleep?

It’s frustrating when you’ve tried everything and your baby still won’t sleep. Here are some next steps:

• Talk to your pediatrician: Check in with your doctor to rule out any underlying health issues that may cause sleep refusal.
• Stay flexible: While consistency is important, it pays to experiment with different strategies to see what will work for your baby.

Enjoy Uninterrupted Sleep

There’s no such thing as a perfect sleeper. Many parents have dealt with this at least once in their lives. By trying these strategies and staying consistent, you’ll likely see positive changes. If all else fails, call your pediatrician to get personalized recommendations.

Motherhood is one of the most profound journeys a woman can experience. It is full of joy, overwhelming love, and, of course, challenges. During this transformative time, many new mothers seek inspiration, guidance, and a sense of peace to help navigate the ups and downs of their new role.

One figure who has stood the test of time as a symbol of grace, strength, and unconditional love is the Virgin Mary. Whether you are religious or simply in need of a calming presence, the Virgin Mary offers a powerful reminder of the resilience and beauty of motherhood.

A Loving Example of Patience

When we think of the Virgin Mary, we often imagine a serene and gentle figure, holding baby Jesus in her arms. But beyond this image lies a story of quiet strength and resilience. Mary’s role as the mother of Jesus was not an easy one. She was a young woman in a challenging and uncertain situation, yet she faced her calling with unwavering faith.

For new mothers, there’s something deeply comforting about this image of Mary. She was a woman who embraced her maternal role with a profound sense of love and devotion, despite the challenges she faced. The patience and calm she exhibited, even when facing the unknowns of raising a child who would grow up to change the world, can be a powerful reminder for mothers today.

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Trusting Your Instincts

Mary’s story is also one of trust — trust in God, in the process, and in her own instincts as a mother. When she was told she would give birth to the Son of God, she didn’t hesitate; she simply trusted. In the same way, new mothers are often faced with moments where they must trust their own judgment and instincts.

New motherhood can feel overwhelming, with a constant flow of advice from family, friends, and even strangers. But at the end of the day, just as Mary trusted herself, new mothers can find solace in trusting their own intuition. It’s a reassuring thought: that we all have the inner strength and wisdom to care for our children, even when the path is uncertain.

Grace Under Pressure

One of the most remarkable things about Mary is her grace, especially during times of trial. Whether it was her journey to Bethlehem, the birth of Jesus in a humble stable, or watching her son grow up and face challenges of his own, Mary’s strength was rooted in her ability to maintain grace under pressure. She didn’t let fear or doubt cloud her faith.

New mothers can certainly relate. From sleepless nights to figuring out the balance between personal identity and motherhood, the early days (and beyond) are filled with moments that test patience and endurance. Yet, like Mary, it’s possible to approach these times with grace. Even when things are difficult, maintaining a sense of calm and poise can create a more peaceful environment for both mother and baby.

A Source of Comfort and Support

For centuries, the Virgin Mary has been a source of comfort for millions around the world. Her role as a mother who nurtured, protected, and loved her son has made her a universal figure of maternal strength. And in today’s world, where many new mothers experience moments of doubt or isolation, Mary can serve as a symbol of the emotional and spiritual support that is so often needed during this transitional time.

For those who turn to their faith, praying to Mary can bring a sense of peace. But even for those who don’t adhere to a specific religious tradition, the symbolism of the Virgin Mary as a mother who understands both the joys and struggles of raising a child can provide solace.

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Surround Yourself with Meaningful Symbols

A simple and beautiful way to bring the spirit of the Virgin Mary into your home is through art and decor. Mary is often depicted in serene, peaceful poses that radiate calm and tranquility — qualities that new mothers can deeply appreciate. Displaying a small statue or painting of the Virgin Mary can serve as a daily reminder of the strength, grace, and love that motherhood requires.

If you’re looking for high-quality religious art and symbols to bring into your home, Holyart is an excellent place to explore. Offering a range of beautifully crafted statues, paintings, and devotional items, Holyart allows you to find the perfect piece that resonates with you.

Whether it’s a statue of the Virgin Mary of Fatima or an intricate painting depicting her quiet strength, these items can serve as a source of comfort and a visual reminder of the powerful role that motherhood plays in the spiritual and emotional lives of women.

Finding Your Own Path

While the Virgin Mary can serve as a powerful source of inspiration, it’s important to remember that every mother’s journey is unique. Mary’s story teaches us the value of love, patience, grace, and trust, but it’s up to each mother to find her own path and define her own motherhood experience.

Whether you find strength in faith, community, or simply in the quiet moments of bonding with your child, remember that you are not alone on this journey. The Virgin Mary’s example of unconditional love and strength can be a comforting guide as you navigate the beautiful and sometimes challenging adventure of motherhood.

In the end, the Virgin Mary’s message to all mothers is timeless and universal: with love, patience, and faith, you have everything you need to be the best mother you can be. So, take a moment to reflect, trust in yourself, and know that you are part of a much larger story of maternal love and strength.