Who is this page for?
- Expectant parents
Need information about newborn sleep, what to expect in the early weeks, and how to establish healthy sleep habits from the start. - Parents and carers of babies and young children
Need practical advice on sleep routines, age-appropriate sleep patterns, managing common sleep challenges and supporting healthy sleep. - Families experiencing sleep difficulties
Need reassurance that sleep challenges are common, along with tips, resources and information on where to seek additional support. - Parents concerned about their child's wellbeing or development
Need information about the importance of sleep for growth, learning, behaviour and emotional wellbeing. - Health and social care professionals
Need access to consistent information and resources to help support discussions with families about sleep and healthy routines. - Early years practitioners and childcare providers
Need information about children's sleep needs and the role of good sleep in supporting development, wellbeing and learning.
What sleep should I expect?
Sleep patterns change as children grow. Newborn babies wake often for feeding and comfort, while older babies and children gradually develop more regular sleep routines.
Every child is different, and it may take time for healthy sleep habits to develop.
How can I help my child sleep well?
A consistent routine can help children feel settled and ready for sleep.
You can help by:
- Keeping regular bedtimes and wake-up times
- Following a calming bedtime routine
- Providing a comfortable sleep environment
- Encouraging active play during the day
- Limiting screens before bedtime
How can I keep my baby safe while sleeping?
Creating a safe sleep environment helps reduce the risk of sudden infant death and other sleep-related dangers.
Always:
- Place your baby on their back to sleep
- Use a firm, flat sleep surface
- Keep your baby's sleep space clear of pillows, toys and loose bedding
- Share a room with your baby for the first six months
- Keep your baby smoke-free before and after birth
Visit our Safe Sleep page for more information.
What if my child is not sleeping well?
Sleep difficulties are common and can affect children of all ages. Difficulties settling, night waking and changes in routine are often part of normal development.
If sleep problems are affecting your child or family life, speak to your Health Visitor or GP for advice and support.
Why is sleep important?
Good sleep supports your child's:
- Growth and development
- Learning and concentration
- Emotional wellbeing
- Physical health and wellbeing
Helping your child get enough sleep can support them to be happy, healthy and ready to learn.
This book provides information on caring for children up to five years old and contact details for useful organisations. It is available to new parents resident in Northern Ireland through primary care services (antenatal clinics, GPs or health visitors).
This leaflet and poster provide information on the risks of sudden infant death. The leaflet has also been updated to highlight the risk of co-sleeping.
This guidance includes current evidence-based advice that should be discussed with parents/carers when addressing safer sleeping. It aims to provide health practitioners with information that promotes standardised practice.