While cuddling is essential for bonding and comforting your baby, relying solely on your arms to make the baby fall and stay asleep can be like sailing an endless rocking boat. Fear not; This guide offers practical tips and strategies to help your little one.
Why does my baby only sleep when held?
Ah, the classic mystery of the cuddly baby sleep lover! It's no secret that many babies find the refuge of your arms irresistible for sleep. But why, oh why, is this the only place they seem babies prefer to fall asleep?
If you're curious about the challenges of getting your baby to sleep peacefully, check out our article on baby fighting sleep. It's much simpler than you think; let's look at some reasons:
- Newborn reflexes: these involuntary responses can disturb sleep, and how your presence helps them calm down. Emphasize the biological aspect of their sleep cycles and soundly need for close contact.
- Mimicking the womb: Draw their attention to the warmth and security your arms provide. Focuses on the comfort and security they find in your embrace.
- Comfort and security: This reinforces the emotional element. The rhythmic sounds, movement, and closeness you offer them are soothing and encourage bonding, making them feel safe and loved.
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Children show they’re tired through changes in behavior. For example, your child might be suddenly irritable, overactive, or demanding.💡 Raising Children
What to do when baby only sleeps when held
1. Make a gradual transition 💤👶
Explain how to slowly move the sleeping baby safely from holding to independent sleep.
2. Ensure a comfortable sleep environment 🛌
Elaborate on temperature, darkness, white noise, and swaddling (if appropriate) as critical factors for promoting sound sleep.
You could offer variations like a warm bath or lullaby to personalize the routine.
3. Establish a bedtime routine⏰
Detail a calming sequence of events leading up to bedtime, like baths, stories, and dimmed lights. Consistency is key!
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Establish a bedtime relaxing activity to help them sleep alone.
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4. White noise or lullabies🔉
Describe how soothing sounds like white noise machines, fans, or gentle music can mask startle reflexes and create a calming atmosphere.
5. Implement sleep training methods
Discover a range of proven techniques and strategies in our comprehensive guide on sleep training methods.
- Pick-up/Put-down (PUPD): This sleep technique helps babies learn to sleep independently. Comfort and encouragement are provided to the baby while gradually teaching them to self-soothe and drift off to sleep independently.
- Chair method: You sit in a chair near your baby's crib as they fall asleep, gradually moving the chair further away each night until you're out of the room.
- Fading method: You gradually reduce the intensity of sleep associations (rocking, feeding, etc.) until your baby can fall asleep independently.
6. Try using relaxing massage techniques
We understand from StoryBook, your desire to find soothing techniques for your toddler's bedtime routine. That's why we provide you with an extensive catalog in which you have all the necessary techniques for a consistent bedtime routine.
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7. Provide a transitional object
What are transitional objects?
- Soft, cuddly items like a blanket, stuffed animal, or special toy to a child form a strong attachment.
- Provide comfort and security, especially during separations or transitions like bedtime.
- Help toddlers feel safe and calm when you're not physically present.
Here are some valuable tips for you: advice for new parents
Pros and cons of contact napping
Let's delve into the pros and cons of this comforting practice where your baby insists on sleeping only when held!
When to begin transitioning your baby to independent sleep?
Transitioning from a crib to a toddler bed marks a significant milestone in your child's early years. Typically occurring between 18 months and 3 years, recognizing the signs of readiness is crucial.
If you're unsure when to transition and looking for guidance on when your baby is ready to sleep without a toddler bed, check out our blog on when to transition to a toddler bed.
"The feeling of well-being and safety that this provides reduces the levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, making it easier for the child to sleep in his arms."
💡Dra. Lorena Koppel
The perception of empty spaces can cause children to wake up, since their brain is still learning to process and manage this feeling.
It is important that this process is managed gradually, allowing the child to gradually get used to sleeping more independently while continuing to feel safe and accompanied.
How long does it take for a baby to adjust to independent sleep?
Unfortunately, there's no magic answer to how long a baby can adjust to independent sleep. Every little one is unique and will adjust to better sleep at their own pace, influenced by various factors like:
- Age: Younger babies might take longer to adjust, while older babies with well-established routines may transition quickly.
- Temperament: Easygoing babies adapt faster, while sensitive babies might require a more gradual and gentle weaning process.
- Sleep habits: Babies used to frequent contact naps or co-sleeping may take longer to learn independent sleep.
- Consistency and patience: Sticking to the routine and offering consistent support is crucial in shortening the adjustment period.
Check out this blog, we assure you it will be productive for you: baby sleep tips
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Written By
Francisco Cornejo, a dynamic entrepreneur with a Masters in Communication from RMIT University in Australia, is the Co-Founder and CEO of Storybook. As a serial entrepreneur, he notably served as the Chief Marketing Officer at Honda Motors in Latin America, shaping the brand's regional presence. Passionate about family well-being and communication, Francisco leads Storybook in its mission to improve children's health globally, aiming to create positive impacts in both corporate and societal spheres.
References
Raising Children. (n.d.). Tired signs in babies and toddlers. Retrieved from https://raisingchildren.net.au/babies/sleep/understanding-sleep/tired-signs
