How to Break Bad Sleep Habits in a Baby
Getting a baby to sleep is not an easy task. Especially if he has bad sleeping habits already ingrained in him. A sleep-deprived baby has a bad effect on the whole family. Usually a baby who has not gotten enough sleep will be cranky during the day and will cause parents and family members to be deprived of sleep and irritable during the day, as well. A few simple tips can make putting baby to sleep easier.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Warm bath
- Lavender sleep soap
- Proper clothing
- Dark, quiet room
- Soft music or repetitive noise
Instructions
-
Getting a Baby to Sleep
-
1
Get the baby to relax before trying to put her to sleep. You can do this by giving her a relaxing bath. Make sure that the water is warm to relax the baby's muscles. Many companies are now making lavender baby soaps and shampoos that you can use to help put a baby to sleep. Lavender is soothing and relaxing. Lightly stroke the baby, and talk to her in a calm and quiet voice while bathing. This puts the baby in a more relaxed mood.
-
2
Babies like different bedtime clothing. Some like to be wrapped up tightly, and some like the freedom of loose clothing. Observe your baby to see what he likes best. After his bath, dress him in the clothing that he likes to sleep in. Young babies usually like tighter clothing, while older babies may like the looser clothing.
-
-
3
Go into a dark and quiet room. Keep a little table side lamp on so that you can see, but make sure that it is on its lowest light setting. Remove all distracting noises from the baby's bedroom. Setting the mood like this will help the baby sleep easier.
-
4
If the baby likes it, play some soft, calming music for her to fall asleep by. Other repetitive noises may also help a baby fall asleep. These may include the lull of a fan or air conditioner, a running faucet or a loudly ticking clock. Observe your baby a few nights to see what sounds she responds to the best.
-
5
Remember to be consistent. The baby may cry for a while, but still, keep up with your routine. Pretty soon the baby will learn to get into the routine, as well. It will be easier for him to fall asleep and stay asleep.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
If one method doesn't work, try another one. No baby is the same, and even your own children may differ from child to child.
When using a lavender bath soap, test it on the baby's skin first to make sure that she is not allergic to it. Do this by putting a little bit on a small patch of the baby's skin. If the skin starts to get irritated, take the soap off immediately, and do not use it anymore.
References
- Photo Credit Sleeping Baby image by sarkee from Fotolia.com
