As parents, we cherish those snuggles with our little ones, but there comes a time when we need our arms back to tend to other tasks or simply rest. It's completely okay to want to put your baby down in a safe space to sleep. However, we understand the frustration that can arise when your peacefully sleeping baby starts to cry as you attempt to set them down, feeling like a ticking time bomb. In this article, we'll explore the reasons why babies cry when being put down and offer helpful tips to create a comfortable and safe sleep space for them.
Understanding Why Babies Cry When Being Put Down: There are several reasons why babies may cry when placed in their crib or bassinet. For older babies, separation anxiety can play a role, while newborns might struggle to adjust to a new sleep environment. It's essential to recognize that it's not that your baby hates their sleep space; they simply don't know what to do there, as they associate their parent's arms with sleep. This behavior is entirely normal as being close to their caregiver is comforting and familiar, considering the significant transition from the womb to the outside world.
Building a Secure Attachment: Many parents worry that encouraging their baby to sleep independently might disrupt the development of a secure attachment. However, secure attachments are formed when a child has a consistent, loving caregiver who provides stability and care. Studies have shown that sleep training does not threaten attachment and can actually improve both baby's and maternal sleep while having no long-term negative effects on cortisol levels, behavior, or emotions.
**sleep training does not apply for newborns up to 3 months, however, exposure, practice, timing and environment can help with the transition.
Tailoring Your Approach: When it comes to helping your baby sleep independently, there's no one-size-fits-all approach. The right method depends on your baby's age, temperament, and your personal preferences. It's crucial to consider what is developmentally appropriate and how your baby responds to different techniques. Remember, there's no definitive answer that works for everyone, so find what suits your family best.
Top Tips for Helping Your Baby Settle Easier:
Tip 1: Hold to Deep Sleep: When holding your baby to help them sleep, wait until they are in a deep sleep state (at least 20 minutes) before attempting to put them down. This reduces the chances of them waking up.
Tip 2: Feet First, Not Head First: When placing your baby in the crib or bassinet asleep, put them down feet first to avoid triggering the startle reflex, which could wake them up.
Tip 3: Create a Relaxing Sleep Environment: Establish a calming wind-down routine and ensure the sleep space is conducive to sleep. Dim the lights, maintain a comfortable room temperature, and use white noise if necessary.
Tip 4: Balance Daytime Sleep: Ensure your baby is neither overtired nor undertired by aligning their daytime sleep totals and wake windows with age-appropriate guidelines. We may need to tweak this to find your baby’s “sweet spot”.
Tip 5: Choose a Gentle Sleep Training Technique: Opt for a sleep training approach that aligns with your comfort level. Focus on settling your baby in the crib or bassinet as much as possible. Work on gradually removing sleep associations while respecting your baby's need for sleep and learning process.
Helping your baby transition to sleeping independently is a natural process that requires patience, understanding, and a personalized approach. By following these top tips and creating a supportive sleep plan, you can build a secure attachment with your baby while fostering their ability to sleep comfortably in various environments. Remember, seeking support and guidance from experts can make this journey smoother for both you and your little one. So, don't hesitate to reach out and start the process of peaceful and restful sleep for your family.
