Wake Window Guide: 6 Weeks Old

At around six weeks, your baby’s wake windows start to stretch, usually lasting about 60–90 minutes between naps. This means a little more time to connect, play, and explore the world (just a bit!) before your baby gets sleepy again.

Here’s what you can do during those awake moments to help your baby feel calm, content, and engaged:

Keep It Simple and Slow

Your 6-week-old is still adjusting to life outside the womb. Choose calm, gentle activities with soft voices, warm light, and slow transitions between sleep and play.

Gentle Play Ideas

• Tummy time: Just a few minutes at a time helps strengthen neck and core muscles.

• Face-to-face time: Babies love studying your expressions — talk, smile, and mimic their little sounds.

• Black-and-white cards or books: At this age, babies are drawn to high-contrast images.

• Soft music or humming: Simple melodies and your voice are soothing and familiar.

• Go for a walk: Fresh air and new sights can be just enough stimulation.

Watch for Sleepy Cues

At 6 weeks, babies can tire quickly — even after just an hour awake. Look for early signs like yawning, staring off, or rubbing eyes. When you see them, start winding down with quiet cuddles, dim lights, and a swaddle to help them settle into sleep.

Every baby is different — some might handle longer wake windows, and others need shorter ones. The goal isn’t to fill every minute, but to create a calm rhythm that helps your baby feel safe, loved, and ready to rest again.