Sleep Blog

Non-nutritive sucking (NNS) is more than just a baby’s way to self-soothe - it’s a proven exercise for the developing brain. Research shows that the repetitive, coordinated movements of NNS activate and strengthen neural pathways essential for speech, attention, and learning. For example, a 2024 study found that infants with more mature NNS patterns at 3 months had higher cognitive and general development scores at 12 months. For premature or at-risk babies, encouraging non-nutritive …

An infant's sucking instinct develops as early as 15 weeks into pregnancy and continues after birth, primarily as a cue for hunger and feeding. However, babies also engage in non-nutritive sucking (NNS) — sucking on fingers or other objects even when they are not hungry. This behaviour is more than just a reflex; it plays a crucial role in an infant's development and well-being. ⁣Non-nutritive sucking typically happens in situations such as: • When babies suck on their thumb, hand, f …

Crying is a newborn's primary way of communicating their needs. While it can be distressing to hear, understanding why your baby cries can help you respond effectively. In this video, we’ll explore common reasons for crying, typical crying patterns, and practical strategies to soothe your baby. Common Reasons for Crying Hunger The most frequent cause of infant crying is hunger. Newborns have small stomachs and need to feed often. A hunger cry typically starts quietly and builds in inte …

Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that plays a crucial role in melatonin production. Here's how the process works:Tryptophan to Serotonin: When you consume foods containing tryptophan, your body converts it into serotonin. This process occurs in the brain, where tryptophan crosses the blood-brain barrier.Serotonin to Melatonin: Once serotonin is produced, it can be converted into melatonin, particularly in the evening or in low-light conditions. Melatonin is the hormone responsible for regul …

Pediatric research has revealed the extraordinary capacity of babies to recognize their mother's voice even while in the womb. It's truly remarkable how this special connection is established before birth.Additionally, babies have the ability to hear and be familiar with specific music or books that mothers played or read aloud during pregnancy.When they are born, babies exhibit a sense of familiarity and recognition towards these sounds, carrying these auditory memories with them and forming a …

Oxytocin, the hormone produced by the hypothalamus in the brain and released by the pituitary gland, provides several health benefits including improving immune function, reducing stress levels and inflammation. Also known as the 'sedation hormone' for its calming and relaxing effects, oxytocin can help babies feel safe and secure, thus helping to improve their sleep quality and duration. There are several ways to boost baby's levels of oxytocin, including: Touch Gentle touches, such as stroking …

An infant's sucking instinct develops as early as 15 weeks into pregnancy, and continues outside of the womb; usually as a cue to hunger and feeding.⁣⁣⁣⁣But there is another form of sucking, referred to as 'non-nutritive sucking' -- being able to suck one's fingers, even when not feeling hungry.⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣'Non-nutritive sucking' is a newborn's ability to get their hand to mouth - not a cue to hunger, but as an exploratory behaviour - as they experience their surroundings and gain knowledge through th …

As parents, ensuring your baby gets peaceful and restorative sleep is always a top priority. However, introducing changes to their sleep routine—such as swaddling in a different arm position or product, transitioning out of a swaddle, or incorporating a new sleep aid—can sometimes feel overwhelming. Every baby adjusts differently, and some transitions may require patience and a tailored approach. By understanding your baby’s unique needs and following proven strategies, you can help them adapt …

Newborn sleep can often feel like a complex puzzle for parents, but establishing healthy sleep habits from the start is crucial for your baby's development and your own well-being. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate those early weeks and support your little one in achieving better sleep. 1. Routine Keeping a regular schedule with consistent wake-up and bedtimes, along with daily activities like morning walks in the sunlight, helps your baby’s body learn when to slee …

It’s very common for young babies to have early morning wake-ups as their circadian rhythms are still developing and their bodies are learning to adjust to a 24-hour sleep-wake cycle. So, if your little one is waking up too early, you’re not alone. Early wake-ups can be tough on sleep-deprived parents, but with a few simple adjustments, you can help your baby sleep a bit longer. Here are some strategies you might want to try: 1. Adjust Bedtime as Needed: If your baby frequently wakes …