Being a new mom is very rewarding. Just one touch of your baby or one smile can feel you up with pride. Just watching your sleeping baby brings peace within you. But let’s admit it. It can get overwhelming. We moms would be hesitant to admit it but sometimes we want to have time alone. Don’t worry it’s normal to be overwhelmed. You are not a bad mom. You just have to work your way around the challenges.

Eighty to ninety percent of new moms and even old moms say that sleep deprivation is the most challenging aspect of being a mom. New moms have a tougher time in dealing with this because they are just starting to learn the patterns and routines that can help manage everything. And most of the time, they have to learn on their own. Sleep deprivation can be a problem if it affects your daily activities, mood and judgment. Thus, it might compromise the safety of your child. Don’t panic. There are ways to help you.

Be aware of your baby’s sleep patterns. A newborn baby sleep patterns varies. But an average newborn sleeps about 16-18hours a day and are distributed to short sleep ranging from 30 minutes to 4hours. Take note of the times the baby feels sleepy like after a bath or after feeding. This would help you get a routine going in which you baby can adapt as well.

Create a comfortable sleeping area free from distractions. Sometimes the smallest things can affect your baby’s sleep. A turned on light, noise and uncomfortable sleeping area can disturb your baby’s sleep.

There are babies that feel more secure when they are held and easily fall asleep. But let’s face it. You have other responsibilities as well. You can hold your baby until he falls asleep. Wait for a few minutes until he is in a deeper sleep before gently placing him on the crib. Do not loosen your hold as you put him in the crib. Replace your hands with pillows to create a cocoon, giving the impression that you are still holding him. Be sure that the pillows are light and are away from his face/head area.

Prepare the necessary things like bottles, baby formula, diapers, baby wipes and other stuff close at hand. This will be convenient when the baby wakes up in the middle of the night complaining about hunger or a dirty diaper. The sooner you address his complaints, the sooner you baby gets back to sleep.

Sleep when he sleeps. Practice sleeping when your baby is asleep. That way, you can both take a rest and it also creates a bonding moment with your child. Do not lie beside your child if you are overly tired because you might unconsciously roll on top of him and hurt him.

Remember it is not selfish to take a moment to for self. You also need rest. When you have rested, you have the energy to take care of your child. Taking care of you is part of taking care of your child.