How to Get Your Baby to Sleep Through the Night

New parents live most of their baby's first year in a zombie-like trance, craving the feeling of an all-night sleep. I remember going through the Tim Horton's drive through at 3am, in my pajamas, because the motion of the car helped my baby to sleep. Before resorting to the "Ferber Method", or going for a ride in the car, give these tips a try.

Cluster Feed Throughout the Day
The most common reason babies wake in the night is because they are hungry. Feeding your baby every couple of hours throughout the day can help alleviate their hunger pains at night. Keeping your baby awake for a full feed at the end of the day is also very important. Watch for cues and try to feed your baby at the first signs of drowsiness.

Learn the Art of Swaddling
Swaddling a baby in a normal size receiving blanket is almost impossible, especially if your baby is large. Try using a larger cloth blanket, tuck in the bottom and wrap tight enough to prevent an escape! Have an experienced mom teach you. I thought I was swaddling properly until my mother wrapped my son when he was two weeks old. I noticed a difference in how soundly he slept the very first night!

Give Your Child Comfort Items That Are Only for Bedtime
My children have musical stuffed animals that they sleep with, but are not allowed to have throughout the day. Having a special bedtime buddy, blanket or other comfort item can make your child's sleeping experience more enjoyable. If your baby uses a pacifier, try attaching it to their pajamas with a clip. They will learn pretty quickly how to find it themselves and it can save you from getting out of bed to help them. Nightlights are also comforting for many children. They can see their surroundings, find their blanket or toy and feel safe knowing they are in their bed.