Why doesn’t my baby sleep through the night?

Every parent knows: a good night’s sleep is worth its weight in gold. But sometimes it feels like your little one just won’t settle. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the most common reasons why babies don’t sleep through the night and share practical, helpful tips to support your baby in getting that well-deserved rest.

Babies grow and develop rapidly, and every stage affects their sleep patterns. Below is an overview of key developmental leaps and how they may impact your baby’s sleep: 

Each stage has its own challenges, but with the right approach, you can support your baby in sleeping through the night. Here are some tips: 

• Create a consistent bedtime routine 
  A predictable routine helps your baby recognize it’s time to sleep. Try a warm bath, reading a story, or cuddling.

• Limit stimulation before bed 
  Turn off screens, dim the lights, and avoid active play to prevent overstimulation. 

• Ensure a comfortable sleep environment 
  Aim for a room temperature around 18°C. Use breathable fabrics and a sleep sack to keep your baby warm but not overheated. 

• Rooming-in 
  Let your baby sleep in a crib in your room. Your presence helps reduce separation anxiety, especially around 8–10 months.

• Keep night care quiet and calm 
  When your baby wakes up at night, keep interactions soft and brief. Use dim lighting and a gentle voice. 

• Watch for sleep cues 
  Yawning, looking away, or fussing are early signs of tiredness. Don’t wait until your baby is overtired. 

• Offer a sense of security 
  A swaddle bag can help your baby feel safe and comforted, especially in the early months. 

With these tips—and a little patience—you can guide your baby toward peaceful nights. Developmental phases may bring temporary challenges, but with love, consistency, and trust in yourself, better sleep will come. 

This blog was created with support from Gina Tiemessen & Yolanda Roos—both with 25+ years of experience in youth health care and pioneers in preventive care for children aged 0–4.