Adequate sleep and nourishment are essential for normal newborn
growth. Although newborn sleeping and eating patterns vary, your
baby will probably sleep for a total of 18 hours each day,
waking for short periods at least every 2 to 3 hours. When your
newborn wakes up, he or she will usually be hungry and need to
be fed. This pattern dominates your baby's first few weeks. At
about 3 weeks, your newborn's nervous system is mature enough
that he or she can wait longer between feedings and interact
with you more. This is a good time to try delaying feeding for a
short time by cuddling or talking. But, take cues from your
baby. Don't force your baby to engage with you when he or she is
not responding and appears to be very hungry. You will probably
help limit nighttime feedings by avoiding socializing with your
baby and lingering after he or she has finished eating. Keep the
light off, use a soft voice, and respond to your baby quickly,
so he or she doesn't have a chance to fully wake up. If you find
that you enj