Periodically a child will need to sleep with its parents. It's reassuring to feel the warmth and hear their mummy or daddy's heartbeat. It also makes it easier for the person breastfeeding or feeding the child, and it is simpler and warmer to stay in bed.

A newborn baby eats and sleeps, and then eats and sleeps again for the first few months. Establishing sleep routines may help all of you adjust in this early phase.

All babies cry; it's an important way for them to communicate. During the first year, crying is your baby's most important way of communicating and being close to you. If your baby is full, dry and comfortable, they may just want to be safe in your lap for a little while.

There is no universal method to get babies to sleep through the night without waking, but if baby's basic needs are met, you'll be well on the way to unbroken nights.

From the age of about 4 months, your baby can tell the difference between night and day. Now you can all start enjoying more regular sleeping habits. Now is the time to introduce bedtime routines and a teddy bear.

Is it difficult to get your baby to sleep? This can be caused by various factors. First, try reducing its activities during the day; maybe a calmer life would suit your infant better. Babies are individuals right from the start.