Explore the Festival of Sleep & Newborn Sleep Tips

Every January, millions of people kick off the new year by celebrating the Festival of Sleep on January 3. The festival was created to help fans get an extra day of shut-eye after the holidays wrap up and allows families to reserve the day for a little extra rest and relaxation. That said, new parents know that sometimes getting a great night’s sleep depends on more than just swapping out your pillows. Celebrating the Festival of Sleep properly can be a lot more difficult with a restless little one– your day of sleep may run off course according to your baby’s sleep schedule. With a few helpful tips and pieces of gear from Baby Brezza’s collection, parents will be well on their way to catching bigger Z’s for the international day of sleep. Without further ado, let’s celebrate the Festival of Sleep and get the whole family snoozing happily!

Three Newborn Sleep Tips & The Best Ways to Sleep a Newborn

For countless families across the globe, sleeping soundly relies on learning the best way to soothe a newborn and figuring out how to get your newborn to sleep comfortably, and the international day of sleep is no exception to this learning curve. So, to make things easier, we’ve compiled our favorite newborn Festival of Sleep tips to help parents discover new ways to help their little ones sleep through the night – which for many, would warrant plenty of reason to celebrate.

1. Swaddle in Style

While many parents have heard of the age-old technique of swaddling, it can take a little getting used to. Wrapping and carefully tucking your baby’s favorite blanket around them can take some practice to master, and your baby may resist really sleeping soundly until you get the fold just right. If you’re new to swaddling– and new to the Festival of Sleep– finding easier techniques may get you on your way to resting faster. Luckily, new technology makes swaddling so much easier, with products such as velcro swaddles. 

2. Soothe Baby with White Noise

White noise has emerged as a valuable tool for helping babies sleep better. The consistent, gentle hum of white noise creates a calming environment that mimics the familiar sounds babies heard in the womb, thereby providing comfort and security. This steady background sound drowns out other disruptive noises, ensuring a more restful sleep for infants. Studies have shown that white noise can help babies fall asleep faster and prolong their sleep duration, leading to improved overall sleep quality. This is particularly beneficial for parents as well, as it can significantly reduce the time spent trying to settle a restless baby, offering a much-needed reprieve to ensure their own rest and well-being.

3. Recreate the Motions of the Womb

Vibrating bassinets and rockers are designed to mimic the gentle, rhythmic motions that babies experience in the womb, providing a soothing environment that can help them fall asleep more easily. In the womb, babies are constantly being rocked as their mothers move throughout the day, which creates a comforting and familiar sensation. When a newborn is placed in a vibrating bassinet or rocker, the consistent and gentle vibrations or rocking movements replicate this familiar womb-like experience, promoting relaxation and sleep. These devices leverage the natural calming effect of rhythmic motion, helping to soothe fussy babies and lull them into a peaceful sleep by recreating a sense of security and comfort similar to what they felt before birth.

Is the Festival of Sleep an official holiday?

While the Festival of Sleep is not an official public holiday, it is widely recognized and celebrated informally. It's more of a fun and whimsical observance that encourages individuals to embrace the idea of taking a break and getting some extra sleep. Many people use it as an opportunity to kick off the new year with a focus on self-care and well-being. Whether you fully immerse yourself in the festivities or simply take a moment to appreciate the restful theme of the day, the Festival of Sleep serves as a gentle reminder to prioritize a good night's sleep for a healthier and happier life.

How can parents participate in the Festival of Sleep?

Participating in the Festival of Sleep is easy and customizable to your preferences. Start by ensuring you and your little one have a comfortable sleep environment – clean sheets, cozy blankets, and a quiet space. Dedicate extra time to sleep on the night of January 3rd, aiming for a full night's rest or a rejuvenating nap during the day. Consider unplugging from electronic devices before bedtime to promote better sleep quality. You can also engage in relaxing activities such as reading a book, practicing mindfulness, or enjoying a warm bath. The key is to prioritize restful activities that contribute to a peaceful and restorative experience.