A Guide To Your New Family's First Weeks - Meriter Health Services

To prevent flat head molding due to back
sleeping, remember the slogan: “Back to Sleep
Tummy to Play” see page 54 for more information
on the importance of Tummy Time in
play section.
Infant Sleep and Awake States
Your baby has different levels or “states” of waking
and sleeping. When you can recognize the state your
baby is in, you will know the best time for feeding,
holding and interacting with your infant. Babies go
through many states each day.
Deep Sleep
This is the most restful sleep state. In this state, your
baby is still and may be hard to wake. Breathing is
very regular and facial expression is relaxed. Studies
show that brain growth is at its maximum during
deep sleep.
Light Sleep
In this state, your baby moves more and breathing is
not as regular. You might notice a grimace, frown or
twitch. Your baby may also smile, sigh or whimper. It
is easier to wake your baby up from this sleep state.
Drowsy State
In this state, your baby is just starting to wake up or
move toward sleep. The eyes may be open or closed.
Your baby may move around some, whimper and
grimace, and will look tired in this state.
Quiet Alert
This state is most enjoyable for you and your baby.
Your baby’s eyes are wide open and bright. The baby
is quiet but looks very interested. You almost feel
as if your baby is saying, “Please talk to me, I want
some attention.” When babies begin getting into an
alert state it will be for short periods. As they get
more mature, their alert periods get longer. This is a
good time to start a feeding.
Active Alert
In this state, your baby is awake but is more active
and may be somewhat fussy. The eyes may or may
not be open.
Crying
In this state, your baby is crying intensely, more than
just fussing or whimpering.
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