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Common Newborn Sleep Myths: Gentle Truths Every Parent Should Know


Newborn sleep Barcelona

If you’ve ever wondered why your newborn doesn’t “sleep through the night,” you’re not alone and the truth is, they’re not supposed to!


Newborn sleep can be unpredictable, and with so much conflicting advice, it’s easy to feel unsure. The first months are about connection, not perfection. Let’s explore some of the most common newborn sleep myths and the gentle truths behind them.



Myth 1: “Newborns Should Sleep Through the Night”


Newborns are biologically wired to wake often. Their tummies are tiny, their metabolism is fast, and waking every 2–3 hours to feed is essential for growth and development, especially before they regain their birth weight.


Once they have, some babies may start to sleep slightly longer, but most will still wake multiple times. That’s perfectly normal and not a sign that anything is wrong.


Gentle truth: Instead of counting hours, focus on your baby’s cues. Feed, comfort, and respond. This builds trust, security, and lays the foundation for healthy sleep.


Myth 2: “You Can Spoil a Newborn by Holding Them Too Much”


Holding your baby doesn’t spoil them, it nurtures them. Newborns are born completely dependent on us. Your arms, your warmth, and your scent are what help them feel safe and regulated.


If your baby only wants to sleep on you in the early weeks, that’s natural. Over time, you can introduce sleep in a cot, but for now, closeness supports their emotional and physical wellbeing.


Gentle truth: Your touch teaches your baby the world is safe. You cannot spoil a newborn with love.


Myth 3: “Newborns Need Strict Schedules from Day One”


Newborns don’t follow schedules, they follow needs. Their circadian rhythm is still developing, so their sleep varies day by day.


Rather than sticking to the clock, focus on your baby’s awake windows. Most newborns can stay awake just 30–60 minutes before needing another nap. Responding to these cues helps prevent overtiredness and supports better sleep overall.


Gentle truth: Flexibility is key. Your baby’s natural rhythm will emerge in time, for now, let connection guide your routine.


What Healthy Newborn Sleep Really Looks Like



Baby sleep Barcelona

Each baby is different, but generally newborns: 


✨ Sleep around 14–17 hours in 24 hours 

✨ Wake every 2–3 hours to feed 

✨ Have short sleep cycles (about 40–50 minutes) 

✨ Often don’t start longer “night” sleep until around 10pm.


This isn’t a problem, it’s how babies grow and develop. By responding to your baby’s cues with gentleness, you’re building trust and laying the groundwork for independent sleep later on.



Want to Feel Calm and Prepared? Join My Live Workshop


If you’re expecting or navigating the early months, I’d love to help you feel more confident and rested.


Get Sleep Ready for Your Newborn 

Gentle Sleep Foundations for Expecting and New Parents (0–5 months) 

11th of November 2025 at 1pm to 2pm

Live online with recording available 




Together, we’ll explore: 


  • What newborn sleep really looks like 

  • How to read tired cues and support rest gently 

  • How to avoid overtiredness and build calm routines 

  • How to feel confident through the unpredictable nights


🎁 Use code SLEEPREADY20 for 20% off — available until Friday 7th of November.



Final Thoughts


Sleep Coach Barcelona

Newborn sleep is not something to fix, it’s something to understand. When you let go of myths and follow your baby’s natural rhythm, you’ll find more peace, rest, and connection.


Every cuddle, every feed, every sleepy sigh is your baby’s way of saying: “I trust you.” And that trust is the heart of gentle sleep.


With love,


Anna, Founder of MyMamaDreams 

Doula | Lactation Consultant | Gentle Sleep Coach




 
 
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