Try this if you can’t get your baby to sleep
Having trouble getting your baby to sleep? You’re not alone. Many parents face challenges when it comes to establishing a consistent sleep routine for their little ones. In this post, we will explore some practical tips and techniques to help your baby settle into a restful sleep.
Understanding Baby Sleep Patterns
First and foremost, it’s important to understand that babies have different sleep patterns compared to adults. Newborns typically sleep for about 16-17 hours a day, but their sleep is broken into short periods. As they grow, these patterns will slowly start to resemble those of adults, with longer periods of sleep at night and shorter naps during the day.
Create a Calm Sleep Environment
Creating a conducive sleep environment can work wonders for your baby’s sleep. Ensure the room is dimly lit, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature. White noise machines can be helpful in drowning out household noises that might wake your baby.
Establish a Bedtime Routine
A consistent bedtime routine is crucial. Babies thrive on predictability, so try to follow a routine that signals bedtime is approaching. This might include activities such as a warm bath, reading a short book, or singing a lullaby.
Feed and Comfort
Ensure your baby is well-fed before putting them down to sleep. Hunger pangs can disrupt their sleep, causing them to wake up more frequently. Comforting your baby through gentle rocking or cuddling can also help them feel secure and ready to sleep.
Encourage Self-Soothing
Teaching your baby to self-soothe can be a game-changer. Place your baby in their crib when they’re drowsy but still awake. This helps them associate their crib with sleep and learn to fall asleep on their own.
Check for Discomforts
Sometimes, babies wake up due to discomfort such as a wet diaper, teething pain, or even the wrong type of clothing for the temperature. Ensure that they do not have any discomforts or help them relax with that.
If you need more support
I lead a team of Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners around the globe, who share my programs and who I personally mentor.
If you are struggling with your baby or child, you can reach out and we can help. We also offer women’s health services and would love to see you too. Our services are often covered through insurance.
You can find the nurse closest to you here. If you need more help you can reach out to [email protected].
Thank you so much for being a part of our community,
Carrie Bruno RN, IBCLC, MSCP
