The sight of your baby cooing, laughing, or bouncing up and down likely fills your heart with joy. However, it might not feel as cute in the middle of the night or when you’re trying to encourage a much-needed naptime.
If your baby often fights sleep, they might not only meltdown more throughout the day, but you might also suffer from sleep deprivation, stress, and a low mood. Make baby naps easier by reading the below tips on how to help your newborn fall asleep.
Spot the Signs of Sleepiness
Overtired babies are harder to settle and more likely to cry uncontrollably. Also, older babies and toddlers might become hyperactive, clingy, or clumsy. Look for signs of sleepiness to put your baby down for a nap at the right time.
Common sleepiness signs include:
- Fussiness
- Rubbing eyes
- Pulling at ears
- Yawning
- Frowning
- Poor focus
Create a Restful Environment
A restful environment can induce sleep. Help your baby drift off to the land of nod by shielding natural light and blocking loud external noises. For example, hang blackout blinds or drapes, turn on a white noise machine, or play a relaxing night light.
Pick the Perfect Stroller
Would you struggle to fall asleep on a hard chair? Well, the same is true for your baby. Don’t settle for an uncomfortable design that will prevent your child from enjoying a nap outdoors.
Instead, look for an option that provides plenty of cozy padding and a spring suspension to create a smoother, more peaceful ride, such as Ergobaby’s Metro+ stroller. It will ensure your baby feels comfortable and secure from the moment you sit or lay them down, which will promote relaxation and sleep.
Stick to a Routine
Babies need a strict daytime and evening routine to fall asleep without hassle or fuss. If you’re trying to settle your baby at different times each day, the inconsistency could mess with their sleep pattern.
The stricter your daytime and night-time schedule, the easier it will be for your child to drift off to sleep during naptime and bedtime. Your son or daughter will soon adjust to falling asleep at a specific time each day and night, which will lead to less fussiness and an easier life for you and your partner.
Place Your Baby Down for a Nap While Awake
Do you often hold your baby until they fall asleep? It is time to stop. After a few weeks in the world, you can place your baby down in their Moses basket or crib while awake. It will teach your son or daughter to self-soothe, which will prevent the need for them to be rocked, fed, or held at naptime and bedtime. Also, the tactic will help your child fall back asleep without help should they wake in the night.
Naptimes and bedtimes can feel frustrating, stressful, and even upsetting. It is important to remember that every child is different, and different tactics will work for different children. Don’t beat yourself up if your child struggles to fall asleep with ease. Instead, have patience, persevere, and trust your gut.
