If your baby can fall asleep without your help, they've mastered a crucial skill—waking you only when hungry at night. For your baby, rocking, breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, or stroller rides have nothing to do with sleep.Whether day or night, your child can fall asleep independently. This means that once your baby no longer needs nighttime feedings—around six months old—they can sleep through the night.
Parents Master Three Key Points to Help Babies Sleep Peacefully on Their Own (Public Health Network)
When Should You Put an Awake Baby to Bed?
Helping your baby fall asleep independently starts with putting them to bed while they are awake.But when is the right time to start training? What if your baby cries every time?
Don't let time pressures overwhelm you. If your newborn falls asleep contentedly on your chest, savor the moment! You still have several weeks to gradually help your baby develop the habit of falling asleep independently. You can decide whether to wait until your baby is 6–10 weeks old before trying;You'll know when the time is right to establish the habit.
Initially, you don't need to insist on putting your baby down awake every single time. Start with one daytime nap, choosing a time when your baby seems particularly tired. Gradually, falling asleep independently will become routine. It's perfectly fine if your baby occasionally drifts off while riding in the car, nursing, or in the stroller.What matters most is that your baby learns to fall asleep independently and sleeps better over time.
What if your baby cries?
If your baby accepts being placed in the crib and soon closes their eyes, you'll have no trouble at all. But what if they cry every time, struggle fiercely, and refuse to sleep? Consider the following suggestions.
* If your baby moves too freely, it can sometimes make falling asleep harder. When your baby is very young, ask a nurse or midwife to show you how to swaddle them. For older babies, a sleep sack or snug blanket can help.
*Too much freedom of movement can sometimes make falling asleep harder. When your baby is very young, ask a nurse or midwife to show you how to swaddle them. For older babies, a sleep sack or even a mom's old T-shirt can work—simply wrap the T-shirt around the baby like a bag and tie it at the bottom.
* Some babies respond well to pacifiers. Pacifiers can be effective in helping babies fall asleep, and their use is generally recommended nowadays. However, only offer the pacifier once when putting the baby down. If the baby cries whenever the pacifier falls out, it's better not to use it.
* Stay near your baby. When soothing your baby, first lay them in bed, speak gently to them, and pat them softly. If they continue crying, hold them in your arms and rock them gently for a moment—either standing or sitting—then place them back in bed before they fall asleep. If they keep crying or won't stop even in your arms, you can repeat the process.You may also decide based on your judgment whether to stay with your baby continuously or leave the room for a few minutes in between.
By following the above principles, your baby won't need excessive assistance to fall asleep. Your help should be gentle and supportive. I endorse the fundamental educational principle: "God helps those who help themselves." Sleeping is something children can accomplish on their own.
Key Points Summary
Baby Sleep Safety
You can effectively prevent SIDS. The key is to always place your baby on their back to sleep!
Good Habits
During the newborn's first week, you can begin establishing a regular dinner routine. This helps them distinguish day from night and learn to fall asleep independently without you.