How do you get a baby to sleep?
Getting your baby to sleep can be a challenge for many parents, which is why we have compiled a guide to better baby sleep .
Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all method, as every baby is unique, but there is hope. It may take a little experimentation and patience to find what works best for your child. But don't worry: We've put together some tips and methods that many other parents have found successful. Let us guide you to help your baby - and yourself - get a better night's sleep.
The "right" method for getting baby to sleep is individual
What works perfectly for some may not necessarily work for others. As a parent, it's important to find out what works best for your baby. You may need to experiment a bit and try different methods before you find the right one. In this guide, we'll give you some inspiration to help your baby sleep better. Read our top tips below.
Put baby to bed when he or she shows signs of tiredness
It is a good idea to put your baby to bed when he or she shows clear signs of tiredness. If you do not put your baby to bed when he or she shows signs of tiredness, you risk having an overtired baby who is more than difficult to get to sleep at night. There are many common signs of tiredness such as yawning, difficulty focusing, irritability and crying. If you have already found yourself in a situation where your baby is overtired, you may want to read our tips for calming an overtired baby .
Create regular bedtimes and routines
It can be difficult to create regular bedtimes when you have a newborn, but try to put your baby to bed at the same time every day. It can also make sense to establish regular times for daytime naps.
In addition to regular bedtimes, it is recommended to establish bedtime routines. For example, it can be a good habit to always sing to your child and rock them in your arms before you put them to bed. With regular routines and rituals, you will teach your child that, for example, the bedtime song is associated with bedtime.
Lie skin-to-skin with your baby
Skin-to-skin contact makes your baby feel safe and calm, making it easier for your baby to drift off to sleep. This can help your baby sleep well. The disadvantage of this method is that you cannot sleep with your baby, as you have to stay awake when your baby is sleeping on your chest.
However, it may be ideal to practice skin-to-skin contact before bedtime to help your baby relax.
The hour before bed should be completely screen-free.
Your child should not be exposed to screens like tablets, computers and televisions before bed. The blue light emitted from screens not only makes it harder for your child to fall asleep, but can also affect the quality of their sleep. The same goes for adults.
Give baby a gentle massage
It is a fact that baby massage has a positive effect on the baby's sleep and well-being. A gentle massage can help baby relax and fall asleep.
Sleep in the same room as baby
Babies find it easier to calm down when they can hear their parents breathing, which is why it is recommended to sleep in the same room.
As parents, you can take turns sleeping in the same room as your baby if you both don't want to be woken up every time your baby wakes up. Research shows that babies sleep better if they sleep with their parents. You may also want to read our guide on co-sleeping. , if you are curious about the topic.
Make sure to put a clean diaper on your baby before bed.
It's very simple, but nevertheless important: always make sure to put a clean diaper on your baby before putting him or her to bed.
Create a quiet and dark sleeping environment
The room where your baby sleeps should be both dark and quiet. The fewer sounds and things your baby can be distracted by, the better for his or her ability to fall asleep and stay asleep. Some babies may feel unsafe if it is too dark, so it may be a good idea to buy and use a nightlight.
Baby should have the right amount of clothes on at bedtime
The trick is to make sure your baby is neither too hot nor too cold when he or she sleeps. You should therefore adjust your baby's clothing according to the season and the temperature of the room, as well as your baby's own thermostat. Some toddlers get very hot when they sleep, while others need more help to stay warm in the form of sleepwear.
Avoid showing signs of stress and frustration
Avoiding getting even a little frustrated when your baby won't sleep or wakes up for the sixth time during the night may be easier said than done. But showing signs of stress and frustration can have a negative impact on your baby's sleep and well-being. That's why it can be a good idea for all parties to make a night plan if you're going through a period where nights are difficult. Talk to your partner about how you can best support each other so that you can stay calm, even when it's difficult.
Try a weighted blanket when your baby reaches a certain age
Weighted blankets have a great effect on your baby's ability to find peace and security - and thus a positive impact on baby's sleep. See our baby-friendly weighted blanket for children from 6 months and up.
