Parenting columnist Anne Sutton runs the nannying agency, Internannies, and has 30 years experience in childcare. This month she tackles a query from Kathryn Maynard of Stokesley who wrote in for some advice on encouraging her two-month-old baby to sleep for longer periods during the night.

THIS is an exhausting time for you Kathryn. Most people feel they can cope with anything if they get a good night's sleep, but unfortunately this is a luxury most parents of a new baby very rarely get.

It sounds as though your little boy is thriving and contented between feeds so you're obviously doing a great job. I know that is no consolation when you're woken up at 2am and 5am every night but this phase will pass. At the moment your baby still needs his night feeds but you will find that the periods between waking will gradually lengthen. It is difficult to put a time scale on this, every baby is different. You will always come across the infuriating mum at the clinic whose baby has been sleeping through the night since he was a week old - lucky her!

As your baby grows and develops, he will become more awake and active during the day and sleep for longer periods during the night. Trying to keep him awake during the day doesn't usually help, although having a routine for you and your baby in the day can help him to recognise the differences between day and night. For example, having times in the day to play, take him out for walks, bath time, etc., will all gradually increase his awareness of the world around him. These times need not be rigid and, as you say in your letter, sometimes you just have to "go with the flow".

In the meantime, do you have anyone to share the night shifts with you? Do accept any offers of help and do try and rest in the day while he is asleep. It is very important for you to look after yourself. Having your first baby is such a shock to the system for you and your partner and it can take some time to adjust.

If you are still concerned, have a word with your health visitor. She can be a great source of help and information and can put you in touch with other mums who you can meet with. Good luck!