2 Month Old Sleeps 20 Hours a Day: Reddit Parents Share Their Experiences
As a new parent, one of the most common concerns is how much your newborn sleeps. After all, sleep is essential for growth and development. But what happens when your 2-month-old is sleeping for 20 hours a day? Is this normal?
According to the National Sleep Foundation, newborns typically sleep 14-17 hours a day, with some babies sleeping as much as 19 hours. So, it’s not uncommon for a 2-month-old to sleep for 20 hours a day. However, if your baby is sleeping for significantly longer or shorter periods of time, it’s important to talk to your doctor.
There are a few reasons why your 2-month-old may be sleeping so much. One reason is that their bodies are still developing. Newborns have immature sleep cycles, which means they wake up more frequently than older babies. As your baby’s brain and nervous system mature, their sleep cycles will become longer and they will sleep for fewer hours each day.
Another reason why your 2-month-old may be sleeping so much is that they are going through a growth spurt. During growth spurts, babies need extra sleep to support their rapid physical development. Growth spurts typically last for a few days or weeks, and during this time your baby may sleep for longer periods of time than usual.
Finally, your baby may be sleeping so much because they are not getting enough to eat. When babies are not getting enough calories, they may become tired and lethargic. If you are concerned that your baby is not getting enough to eat, talk to your doctor.
If your 2-month-old is sleeping for 20 hours a day, it’s important to talk to your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. However, in most cases, sleeping for 20 hours a day is normal for a 2-month-old. As your baby’s body and brain mature, their sleep patterns will change and they will sleep for fewer hours each day.
Tips and Expert Advice for Parents of 2-Month-Olds Who Sleep A Lot
If you are concerned about your 2-month-old’s sleep habits, there are a few things you can do:
- Make sure your baby is getting enough to eat. A well-fed baby is a sleepy baby. If you are breastfeeding, make sure your baby is latching on properly and is getting enough milk. If you are bottle-feeding, make sure you are using the correct nipple size and that your baby is drinking enough formula.
- Create a regular sleep schedule. Babies thrive on routine, so try to put your baby to bed and wake them up at the same time each day. This will help them to learn when it’s time to sleep and when it’s time to be awake.
- Make sure your baby’s sleep environment is conducive to sleep. The ideal sleep environment is dark, quiet, and cool. Avoid putting your baby to sleep in a room that is too bright, noisy, or warm.
- Swaddle your baby. Swaddling can help to create a sense of security and warmth, which can promote sleep.
- Rock your baby to sleep. Rocking can be a soothing motion that can help to lull your baby to sleep.
- Sing to your baby. Singing can be a calming and relaxing activity that can help your baby to fall asleep.
- Use a white noise machine. White noise can help to block out other noises that may be disturbing your baby’s sleep.
- Be patient. It takes time for babies to learn how to sleep. Don’t get discouraged if your baby doesn’t start sleeping through the night right away. Just be patient and consistent with your sleep routine, and your baby will eventually learn to sleep for longer periods of time.
FAQ on 2-Month-Olds Who Sleep A Lot
- Is it normal for a 2-month-old to sleep for 20 hours a day?
Yes, it is normal for a 2-month-old to sleep for 20 hours a day. Newborns typically sleep 14-17 hours a day, with some babies sleeping as much as 19 hours.
- What are some reasons why a 2-month-old may be sleeping so much?
There are a few reasons why a 2-month-old may be sleeping so much, including:
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Their bodies are still developing.
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They are going through a growth spurt.
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They are not getting enough to eat.
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What can I do if my 2-month-old is sleeping too much?
If you are concerned about your 2-month-old’s sleep habits, there are a few things you can do:
- Make sure your baby is getting enough to eat.
- Create a regular sleep schedule.
- Make sure your baby’s sleep environment is conducive to sleep.
- Swaddle your baby.
- Rock your baby to sleep.
- Sing to your baby.
- Use a white noise machine.
- Be patient.
Conclusion
If you have any other questions about your 2-month-old’s sleep habits, be sure to talk to your doctor.
Are you interested in learning more about sleep in newborns and infants? If so, I invite you to read my other articles on the topic.
