Sleep Tips for Parents of Multiples: How to Get Everyone Sleeping

Being a parent is an incredible journey filled with love, joy, and seemingly endless sleepless nights. And when you have multiples, the challenges multiply, especially when it comes to sleep.

Getting everyone on a sleep schedule can feel like an impossible feat, but with some strategies and patience, you can establish healthy sleep patterns for your little ones and yourself.

Luckily, Major League Mommy has got you covered! Here are some sleep tips for parents of multiples, helping you get everyone sleeping peacefully in no time.

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*This article is not to be used as a substitute for professional advice and is based solely on personal experiences and research. As always, we recommend consulting with a physician for referrals and recommendations.

How to Get Everyone Sleeping Through the Night as a Parent of Multiples

Create a Consistent Bedtime Routine

Establishing a consistent bedtime routine is crucial in promoting healthy sleep habits for your multiples at any stage.

This routine can include activities such as breastfeeding, bathing, changing into pajamas, reading a story, and soothing activities like gentle songs or cuddling.

You may even want to try the tips outlined in our guide on How to Put a Baby to Sleep in 40 Seconds.

By following the same steps every night, your little ones will start to associate these activities with sleep, making it easier to settle down.

Sync Sleep Schedules

Multiples often have different sleep schedules, making it difficult for parents to get any rest. Try to sync their sleep schedules as much as possible. You can wake and feed them together if possible, ensuring they are on the same nap schedule during the day.

By aligning their schedules, you can increase your chances of getting some precious downtime for yourself.

It is important to note, however, that there are no guarantees you will be able to sync your babies’ sleep schedules in the early days. However, it is definitely worth a shot.

Use Swaddling and White Noise

Swaddling your multiples and using white noise machines (one of our must-have baby sleep products) can help create a calm and soothing environment for sleep. Swaddling mimics the feeling of being in the womb, comforting babies and helping them sleep longer.

White noise, similar to what they heard in the womb, can help drown out any background noise, soothe your little one, and promote deeper sleep.

Consider Room Sharing

If you have multiples, it might be beneficial to have them room-share in the early months. By having them close, you can address their needs more efficiently and even spot if one wakes up before he/she disturbs the others.

You also have the benefit of sleeping in your comfortable bed as opposed to a chair or other space in the nursery as you anticipate nighttime disruptions.

However, ensure they each have their own sleep space within the room, so they don’t disrupt each other’s sleep and to create a safe sleep environment.

Encourage Self-Soothing

Teaching your multiples to self-soothe is essential for long-term sleep success. Start by putting them down drowsy but awake, allowing them to learn how to fall asleep independently.

This helps them develop self-soothing skills and reduces dependency on you to get back to sleep if they wake up during the night.

Make sure you speak with your child’s pediatrician for a better understanding of whether or not this method is appropriate for your specific situation.

Prioritize Nap Time

Nap time is vital for multiples’ development and your sanity as parents. Make sure each baby gets enough daytime sleep by establishing a consistent nap schedule.

Create a quiet and soothing environment for naps, and if possible, try to align their naps so that you can have a break or even catch up on some sleep yourself.

Take Care of Yourself

Sleep deprivation can quickly take a toll on your physical and mental well-being. It’s crucial to prioritize self-care and rest whenever possible. Enlist the help of friends, family, or even consider hiring a babysitter to get some much-needed rest. Remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup.

Be Patient and Flexible

Remember that every baby is different, and what works for one might not work for the other. Be patient and flexible in your approach, willing to adapt and try different strategies as needed.

It may take time to establish healthy sleep patterns, but with consistency and persistence, your multiples will eventually learn to sleep through the night.

Wrapping Up

Sleep is a precious commodity especially when you have multiples, but with these tips, you can increase your chances of getting everyone sleeping peacefully.

Establishing a consistent bedtime routine, syncing sleep schedules, and creating a soothing environment are vital steps in helping your multiples develop healthy sleep habits.

Don’t forget to prioritize self-care and seek support when needed. With time and patience, you can help your little ones (and yourself) get the restful sleep you all deserve.