When babies first start nodding off, unlike adults, they immediately enter into active sleep. For most newborns, this active state lasts 20 or 30 minutes. Then the quiet sleep mode, similar to adult NREM sleep, kicks in. Baby’s breathing becomes deeper and more rhythmic. Baby’s eyes stop moving. Limbs go limp. They are not very easily aroused. This means you can probably put them in the crib without fear of waking them.
