Introduction

If you’re reading this at 3:00 AM, you’re not alone. One of the most searched terms by new parents is "when will my baby sleep through the night?" In 2026, we understand more than ever about infant neurobiology and the development of the circadian rhythm.

The Myth of the "12-Hour Stretch"

Most newborns sleep between 14 to 17 hours a day, but it’s rarely in one go. Because a newborn's stomach is roughly the size of a walnut, they must wake every 2–3 hours to feed.

• The Science: Babies are born without a developed internal clock. They don't produce their own melatonin (the sleep hormone) until they are about 8–12 weeks old.

Top Tips for Sleep Success:

• Daylight Exposure: Take your baby outside for 10 minutes of morning sunlight to help "set" their internal clock.

• The "Drowsy but Awake" Technique: Try placing your baby in the crib when they are heavy-eyed but still slightly conscious. This helps them learn the skill of self-soothing.

Safety First: Always follow the ABC’s of safe sleep: Alone, on their Back, in a Crib with a firm mattress and no loose bedding.