3-Month-Old Baby Guide
Congratulations on reaching the 3-month milestone with your baby! At this age, your little one is becoming more active and alert, and their sleep patterns are likely evolving. This is an excellent time to focus on establishing consistent sleep routines and consider more structured sleep training approaches to help your baby - and you - get the rest you need.
Daily Schedule
- 6:30 AMWake up and feed
- 7:30 AMDiaper change and morning playtime
- 8:45 AMMorning nap
- 10:15 AMWake up and feed
- 11:15 AMTummy time and interactive play
- 12:30 PMEarly afternoon nap
- 2:00 PMWake up and feed
- 3:00 PMSensory play and outdoor time
- 4:15 PMLate afternoon nap
- 5:15 PMWake up and feed
- 6:15 PMBath time and bedtime routine
- 7:00 PMBedtime feed and sleep
- 10:30 PMOptional dream feed
- 3:00 AMPotential night feed (if needed)
Developmental Milestones
Your 3-month-old is reaching exciting developmental milestones. Here are key achievements to look out for, with a special focus on sleep-related progress:
Physical Development
- Raises head and chest during tummy time
- Opens and closes hands
- Swipes at dangling objects
- May roll from tummy to back
Cognitive Development
- Recognizes familiar faces and objects
- Follows moving objects with eyes
- Begins to develop hand-eye coordination
- Shows boredom or fussiness if activity doesn't change
Social and Emotional Development
- Smiles spontaneously, especially at people
- Imitates some movements and facial expressions
- Begins to show attachment to caregivers
Sleep Development
- May sleep for longer stretches at night (5-6 hours)
- Establishes more regular sleep patterns
- Might start to self-soothe more effectively
- Requires 14-16 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period
Feeding Guidelines
Proper nutrition remains crucial for your baby's growth and can significantly impact sleep patterns. Here are feeding guidelines for your 3-month-old:
Breast Milk or Formula
Frequency: Every 3-4 hours
Amount: 4-6 ounces per feeding
Night feedings may decrease to 1-2 as sleep consolidates
Feeding and Sleep Connection
Frequency: Observe baby's cues
Amount: N/A
Try to separate feeding from sleep onset to promote independent sleep skills
Activity Suggestions
Engaging in age-appropriate activities can support your baby's development and contribute to better sleep. Try these activities with your 3-month-old:
Tummy Time
Place baby on their tummy for longer periods while awake, encouraging reaching and pushing up
Benefits:
- Strengthens core, neck, and arm muscles
- Prepares for rolling and crawling
- Promotes physical tiredness for better sleep
Interactive Play
Engage with colorful toys, mirrors, and soft books. Talk and sing to your baby
Benefits:
- Stimulates cognitive and language development
- Encourages social interaction
- Helps differentiate between playtime and sleep time
Sleep Routine Enhancement
Expand bedtime routine to include calming activities like infant massage or lullabies
Benefits:
- Strengthens sleep associations
- Helps baby wind down before sleep
- Promotes longer and more restful sleep periods
Common Concerns
As your baby grows and their sleep patterns evolve, you may encounter new challenges. Here are some common concerns for 3-month-olds, with a focus on sleep-related issues:
Sleep Regression
Baby suddenly wakes more frequently or resists sleep
Advice:
This is often temporary. Maintain consistent routines and consider gentle sleep training methods like gradual withdrawal or timed check-ins.
Nap Transitions
Baby may be shifting from 4 naps to 3 naps a day
Advice:
Follow baby's cues and gradually extend wake windows. Ensure the last nap doesn't interfere with bedtime.
Early Morning Wakings
Baby consistently wakes very early and won't go back to sleep
Advice:
Ensure the room is dark enough and consider adjusting bedtime. Gradually shift the morning feed time later.
Pacifier Dependence
Baby wakes frequently for pacifier replacement
Advice:
Consider teaching baby to replace their own pacifier or gradually reduce pacifier use, especially at the start of sleep periods.