Newborn Sleeps with Eyes Open: What It Means and How to Help

Have you ever noticed your newborn sleeps with their eyes open? It can be surprising—even a little unsettling—but rest assured, it’s typically a harmless phenomenon. Many babies partially open their eyes while sleeping, and understanding why this happens can ease your worries. In this post, we’ll explain why some newborns sleep with their eyes open, when it’s normal, and when to see a doctor.

Why Do Some Newborns Sleep with Their Eyes Open?

Sleeping with eyes partially or fully open is known as nocturnal lagophthalmos, and it’s more common in newborns than you might think. Here are some possible reasons:

1. Immature Sleep Cycles

Newborns have underdeveloped sleep patterns. They spend a lot of time in REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, which is a lighter stage of sleep where their eyes may flutter or partially open.

2. Genetics

Some babies inherit this trait from their parents. If you or your partner slept with your eyes open as a baby, your child might do the same.

3. Developing Eyelid Muscles

In newborns, the muscles that control the eyelids are still maturing, which can make it harder for them to fully close their eyes while sleeping.

4. Dreaming

Babies often dream during REM sleep, and their eye movements might make it seem like they’re awake when they’re actually fast asleep.

Is It Normal for a Newborn to Sleep with Their Eyes Open?

In most cases, it’s perfectly normal. Many babies grow out of it as their sleep cycles mature and their eyelid muscles strengthen—usually by the age of 12 to 18 months.

However, if you notice any of the following signs, it’s a good idea to consult your pediatrician:

- Red or irritated eyes when your baby wakes up.
- Dry eyes, which could indicate a problem with lubrication.
- Other unusual symptoms, like difficulty breathing or abnormal movements.

How to Help Your Baby Sleep More Comfortably

If your newborn sleeps with their eyes open, here are some tips to ensure they rest well:

1. Create a Calm Sleep Environment

Keep the room dark and quiet to minimize distractions during sleep. Using blackout curtains or white noise machines can help.

2. Gently Close Their Eyes

If you notice your baby’s eyes are open during sleep, you can gently close them with clean fingers. Be careful not to wake them up in the process.

3. Use the Sleepy Hat to Cue Sleep

The Sleepy Hat is a revolutionary sleep aid designed to help babies fall asleep faster. It helps block out visual distractions, making it an excellent tool to help babies close their eyes and get ready for sleep. By creating a dark and soothing environment, the Sleepy Hat encourages sleep.

4. Stick to a Bedtime Routine

A consistent routine helps signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep. Activities like bathing, feeding, or reading a story can help them wind down.

Why the Sleepy Hat Is Perfect for Babies Who Sleep with Eyes Open

When your newborn sleeps with their eyes open, reducing distractions can make a big difference. The Sleepy Hat is designed with this in mind, providing a gentle, portable solution for ease of sleep. Whether you’re at home, in the car, or on a plane, the Sleepy Hat helps create a consistent sleep environment that promotes the closing of eyes and overall sleepiness.

Final Thoughts

While it might look unusual, it’s usually normal if your newborn sleeps with their eyes open. With time, they’ll likely outgrow this phase as their sleep patterns mature. In the meantime, focusing on a calming sleep environment and using tools like the Sleepy Hat can help ensure they get the restful sleep they need.

Ready to try the Sleepy Hat? Visit our website today to learn more about this parent-approved solution for a happier, sleepier baby.

Sources:

1. Cleveland Clinic - [Nocturnal Lagophthalmos](https://my.clevelandclinic.org)
2. American Academy of Pediatrics - [Baby Sleep Patterns](https://healthychildren.org)
3. Sleep Foundation - [Newborn Sleep Tips](https://sleepfoundation.org)