A new book by Mayo Clinic doctors says babies typically sleep 16 hours a day, though often only one or two hours at a time. "Mayo Clinic Guide to Your Baby's First Year," edited by pediatricians Esther H. Krych, Robert V. Johnson and Walter J. Cook, delineates baby's monthly sleep patterns for the first year, offering tips like encouraging babies to fall asleep in the crib rather than in parents' arms, putting them to bed at signs of sleepiness or fussiness, and leaving them alone for a few minutes when crying to allow them to settle on their own. Parents can also encourage activity during the day by talking, singing and playing, and opting for a relaxing bath or cuddling at night.

Chicago Tribune by Janice Neumann

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