Bringing home a baby is one of the greatest joys you will ever experience in life. You’ve just created a beautiful miracle and are ready to raise this baby with your values and happy memories. While you’re glowing in the glory of welcoming the new addition to your family, in the back of your mind you’re worrying about the lack of sleep you’ll have over the next few months.

It isn’t easy raising a baby, especially as a new parent. Luckily, there are great techniques and tips to help you get the sleep you need to take care of your newborn baby.

Sleep While the Baby Sleeps

It’s the oldest tip in the book for new parents, but it’s effective. Whenever the baby falls asleep you have the chance to grab a few good moments of sleep and relaxation. Even if you can’t fall asleep it’s a good idea to lie down and close your eyes for a bit to build up your energy again.

Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment

When you do have the chance to sleep, make sure it’s in a comfortable environment. Clean your bedroom and take out all of the clutter that can distract you and remind you of things you must do later. Your environment should be calm, dark, and sleep inducing.

Also create a comfortable sleep environment for the baby. Make sure he or she has a quiet room with a comfortable temperature to help them fall and stay asleep.

Practice Good Sleep Habits

Just like how we practice good habits in the shower and for our teeth, it’s important to have good habits when it comes to sleep. The three most effective sleep practices include:

• No caffeine in the afternoon
• No electronics an hour before bed
• Create a sleep schedule

It’s important that you don’t rely on caffeine to stay awake. It dehydrates you and too much can increase anxiety.

Instead of scrolling through your phone, answering emails, or watching television, try reading a book or listening to a podcast before you go to sleep.

Lastly, while having a sleep schedule isn’t easy with a newborn, trying to stay consistent when you wake up and go to sleep can help you tremendously as a new parent.

Leave the Chores

You don’t have to be perfect. Every new parent is going to have all of their attention on taking care of their baby. If you leave a sink full of dirty dishes or a load of laundry in the dryer for tomorrow, nobody is going to judge you. Don’t over exert yourself trying to keep a clean house if it means sacrificing sleep.

Ask for Help

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. It isn’t easy being a new parent and you deserve to have some help. Whether you ask your partner, friends, family members, or even sign up for baby coaching lessons, getting the help you need is essential when raising a newborn. Getting help means you can focus more on your baby and create the best life possible.