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your baby isn't crying from hunger or something else, such as temperature, that is making her uncomfortable.

2. Set a consistent bedtime.
Babies thrive on routine, as you probably know. Ironically, if left to their own will and device, they will never give themselves a schedule. So, YOU set the bedtime, but use the baby's cues as a guide. If she starts showing signs of sleepiness at 8 o'clock, put her to bed at 8 o'clock. Then see #1 above. After a few exhausting nights, you'll thank yourself profusely for sticking to your guns. I think that around two-three months old, you can begin setting a routine for her. It's too early to let her cry herself to sleep, but you can certainly begin getting younger babies used to the idea of a bedtime. Turn the lights down, turn off the TV, turn on some soft music, and try not to do housework or anything else your baby is used to seeing you do during the day. An idea: Put her in her infant swing while you read a book. That's right - read a book. Did you ever think you'd get to do that again?

3. Keep her happy during the day.
This is especially true with newborns. Happy babies are content babies, and content babies sleep. There are a million ways to keep your baby happy, most of which are common sense, so I won't insult your intelligence with listing them. Most are personal anyway.

4. Co-sleep.
This is a debated issue, but I see no problem with co-sleeping with your baby, as long as safety is kept in mind. It works great especially if you're nursing-baby is right there next to you. Warmth and your smell will keep baby blissfully sleepy. To me, it's a beautiful thing. Make sure your partner is on board with the idea, though. It shouldn't be your decision alone. As for safety, there are devices you can buy that will keep baby isolated from sleep dangers, such as loose blankets and pillows. Like I said, this is a controversial issue, so the decision to co-sleep is based solely on your and your partner's comfort levels. Just a sidenote: Don't forget to discuss with your partner when co-sleeping is no longer allowed. You probably don't want to sleep next to your child forever.

One more piece of advice: try to enjoy the night feedings! Instead of alternating with your partner, wake up together with the baby once in awhile-perhaps on a weekend. Watch a movie or something. It seems absurd, but this night feeding thing is really only temporary. Soon enough, there will be a slew of other things to worry about.

Hope I helped!

Learn more about this author, Jennie Kelley.
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