Here are 10 certified ideas for getting your baby to fall asleep.
- Establish a consistent bedtime routine: One of the most effective ways to help your baby get better sleep is to create a consistent bedtime routine. This could include activities like taking a bath, reading a story, singing a lullaby, or giving them a warm bottle of milk. The key is to make the routine soothing and relaxing, so that your baby associates it with sleep.
- Create a conducive sleep environment: Another important factor in helping your baby get better sleep is creating a conducive sleep environment. This means making sure the room is dark, cool, and quiet. Blackout curtains can help block out any light, and using a white noise machine or fan can help drown out any outside noise. It’s also a good idea to keep the room at a comfortable temperature, between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Don’t put your baby to sleep when they’re not actually tired: One common mistake that many parents make is trying to put their baby to sleep when they’re not actually tired. This can lead to frustration for both you and your baby, as they become more and more upset without actually drifting off to sleep. Instead, try to put your baby to sleep when they’re showing signs of tiredness, such as rubbing their eyes or yawning.
- Avoid stimulating activities before bedtime: Babies can easily become overstimulated, which can make it difficult for them to fall asleep. To help your baby get better sleep, avoid stimulating activities like playing games or watching TV in the hour leading up to bedtime. Instead, try to keep the environment calm and quiet, and focus on activities that will help your baby relax and prepare for sleep.
- Try using white noise or gentle music: White noise or gentle music can be a great way to help your baby sleep. The steady, soothing sounds can help drown out any outside noise and provide a calming background for your baby to drift off to sleep. You can try using a white noise machine or playing calming music from a speaker or phone.
- Consider using a weighted blanket or other calming sleep aids: Weighted blankets and other sleep aids can be a great way to provide your baby with the physical comfort and security they need to sleep well. The gentle pressure of a weighted blanket can help your baby feel calm and relaxed, and can also help them sleep longer and more soundly. Other calming sleep aids, like a sleep sack or special bedding, can also help your baby feel more comfortable and secure.
- Make sure your baby is comfortable and not experiencing any physical discomfort: Babies can experience discomfort from things like hunger, gas, or a wet diaper, and addressing these needs can often help them sleep better. It’s important to make sure your baby is comfortable and not experiencing any physical discomfort that could be preventing them from sleeping well.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques: Every baby is different, and what works for one may not work for another. If one method of helping your baby get better sleep isn’t working, don’t be afraid to try something else. Experiment with different techniques and see what works best for your little one.
- Take care of yourself as a parent: Caring for a baby can be exhausting, and it’s important to take care of yourself as well. Make sure to get enough rest yourself, and ask for help from friends, family, or a healthcare provider if you need it.
- Ask for help if you need it: If you’re struggling to help your baby get better sleep, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Your healthcare provider or a sleep specialist can offer valuable advice and support, and can help you determine the best strategies for improving your baby.