Getting your newborn to sleep in the crib can be a challenging task. Many babies prefer falling asleep in your arms, the stroller, or a car seat, which can leave you exhausted and frustrated. However, it’s essential to make sure your baby sleeps in a crib as it’s the safest and best place for them to sleep. In this article, we will guide you on how to get your baby to sleep in the crib.
Why Is It Important to Get Your Baby to Sleep in the Crib?
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), safe sleeping guidelines recommend that babies should always sleep in a crib. Sleeping in the crib reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related accidents. Moreover, establishing good sleep habits now will translate to better sleep as your baby grows.
When Should You Start Training Your Baby to Sleep in the Crib?
The best time to start training your baby to sleep in the crib is when they are around three months old. After this period, it becomes harder to change their napping and nighttime habits.
What If Your Baby Only Sleeps in Your Arms?
Young infants find the warmth and softness of your arms soothing. To make the crib feel more caregiver-like, make sure the crib’s temperature is warm enough. If your baby is under three months, swaddle them, feed them, and ease them into the crib. For babies beyond the swaddle, try a sleep sack. If your baby still protests, stand next to the crib for a few minutes with your hand on their tummy to soothe them. A belly rub is fine, but avoid picking them up.
What If Your Baby Only Sleeps in the Infant Carrier?
An infant carrier or sling is a bliss-inducing trifecta. The chest-to-chest contact, warmth, smell, and motion from walking around calm infants. If your child has reflux, the upright position can make for a happier, less fussy baby. To wean your baby off the carrier, start with bedtime. Put them down in their crib when they’re awake but sleepy. Then check on them every five to ten minutes. The goal is for them to fall asleep on their own. Once bedtime is going well, put your baby down awake for one nap during the day, but keep the others as usual, so they don’t become cranky or overtired.
What If Your Baby Only Sleeps in the Swing or Car Seat?
Swings and car seats both involve motion, which is calming in and of itself. The movement is often similar to what it felt like in your belly, and your baby might like the confined, secure space. To get your baby to sleep in the crib, start by eliminating the movement. Put them in the stroller but don’t stroll it, pop them into the swing but don’t swing it, and buckle them in the car seat but don’t drive anywhere. When your baby is used to that, put them in the crib when they’re tired but not completely exhausted. Each step will probably take three or four days, so be consistent. If naptime sobs have you on the verge of tears, check on your baby after a predetermined amount of time and say, “I guess naptime is over! You must not be sleepy.” Once they show signs of tiredness again, you can try the routine once more.
Tips to get your baby to sleep in the crib
- Start with short periods: Start by having your baby nap in the crib during the day for short periods of time. This will help them get used to the crib and create positive associations with it.
- Create a sleep-friendly environment: Make the crib a comfortable and inviting place for your baby to sleep. Use soft sheets and blankets, and keep the room dark and quiet.
- Develop a bedtime routine: Establishing a consistent bedtime routine can help your baby relax and prepare for sleep. This could include a warm bath, a story, and some quiet time with soothing music or a lullaby.
- Use a transitional object: Some babies may benefit from having a transitional object, such as a soft toy or blanket, to help them feel more secure in the crib.
- Try gradual separation: Gradually reduce the amount of time you spend with your baby while they fall asleep in the crib. Start by sitting next to the crib and then move farther away over time.
- Be patient: Remember that getting your baby to sleep in the crib may take time and patience. Be consistent with your efforts and don’t give up if it doesn’t work right away.
- Consider sleep training methods: If your baby is struggling to sleep in the crib, there are various sleep training methods you can try, such as the Ferber method or the Cry It Out method. It is recommended to talk to your pediatrician before attempting any sleep training methods.
Training your baby to sleep in the crib takes patience and consistency. Whether your baby prefers falling asleep in your arms, the stroller, or a car seat, you can transition them to the crib for deeper, safer slumber. Remember to always follow safe sleeping guidelines to ensure your baby’s safety and well-being. Establishing good sleep habits now will make a big difference as your baby grows and develops.
