Our favourite songs and music to help your baby sleep

Getting your newborn or toddler off to sleep is one of the biggest daily challenges for mums. Whether they are over-tired or full of beans, it can be hard to get them to settle and relax for naptime or in the evening.

A well-chosen song or piece of music could be the answer to help a cranky baby drift off to sleep. Music also aids in your little one's development, "wiring" their brain for language and social interaction later on.

Here are some of our favourite songs and pieces of music for newborns and toddlers. If you're expecting, these are also great options for exposing your little one to calming sounds early on. Your baby's hearing system is functional in the womb from around 20 weeks onward.

Classical music
Classical music is the perfect choice for helping your little one off to sleep. There are a huge variety of pieces freely available online - here are some of the best.

1. Clair de Lune - Debussy
This is one of Debussy's most famous pieces, and the gentle piano music will soothe even the most restless of babies.

2. Nocturne No. 2 in E Flat Major - Chopin
Another piano piece for easy listening in the evenings.

3. Meditation from Thaïs - Massenet
This stunning violin composition will soothe both parent and baby.

Modern music
If you're sick of the standard Twinkle, Twinkle lullabies, why not try some more contemporary versions? YouTube channels like Rockabye Baby and Babies Go have a great selection of modern songs turned into lullabies, featuring everyone from Bruce Springsteen to Metallica.

1. Stairway to Heaven Lullaby - Led Zeppelin (Rockabye Baby)
The rhythmic beat and gentle music are sure to help your baby drift off.

2. With or Without You Lullaby - U2 (Babies Go)
A firm favourite for parents and babies alike.

3. Hey Jude Lullaby - The Beatles (Rockabye Baby)
Even the original version of this song is a great night time tune, but the lullaby version really hits the right note.

Relaxing sounds
Gentle natural sounds and simple music can help to create a soothing atmosphere in your baby's room. Here are a few we love...

1. Waterfalls and rain
The repetitive cascading sounds are perfect for cranky little ones.

2. White Noise
If your baby often stays or falls asleep with the hoover or hairdryer on, low white noise could create the right environment at night, too.