Getting your baby used to sleeping in its own bassinet can be a challenge. Perhaps your little one starts crying as soon as you put it down or maybe your little appears to be able to fall asleep only in your arms. Sounds familiar? Don’t worry, with a little patience and some useful tips, you can help your child sleep peacefully in his or her own cot.
My newbon won't sleep in a bassinet
After being sheltered in your belly for nine months, your little one feels safest when it is near you. Your fragrance, voice and warmth offer security. Your baby’s bassinet is a new, unfamiliar place that can sometimes cause anxiety at first. In addition, things like temperature, sounds or a different mattress can make it harder for your little one to fall asleep.
Are you aware that your child may have an extra need for your closeness during mental leaps? In The Wonder Weeks app you can read all about the ten mental leaps and how you can support your little one during these phases.
As of which age can your newborn sleep in their own bassinet?
It is recommended to let your child sleep in your room for the first six months, for example in a crib or co-sleeper. This is called “rooming-in” and ensures that you can respond faster to your little one’s signals. After this period, you can choose to let your child sleep in his or her own room, but the most important thing is that you do what feels comfortable for you.
Find out more about the sounds your little one is making while asleep.
How can you help your newborn get used to his or her own bassinet?
With the right approach, you can gradually get your baby accustomed to sleeping in his or her own cot. Some useful tips…
- Establish a fixed sleep ritual
A predictable ritual helps your child understand that it’s time to go to sleep. This ritual may be a warm bath, a soft lullaby or a quiet, relaxed hugging moment before bedtime. A fixed pattern provides peace of mind and support. - Create a comfortable and safe cot
Make your baby’s cot inviting and safe. Choose a firm mattress, use a sleeping bag instead of loose blankets and keep the bed uncluttered. A temperature of between 16 and 18 degrees Also make sure that your child is not dressed too hot or too cold. - Allow your baby to get used to the cot during the day
Start by putting your baby in the cot for brief spells, such as for a nap or a bit of playtime. This makes it a familiar place where your child will feel comfortable, not only at night. - Put your child to bed awake
Strive to put your baby to bed when it is sleepy but still awake. This will teach your baby to fall asleep by itself and reduce the likelihood that your baby will panic when it wakes up in between. - Stay close to your baby to comfort it
Does your child cry as soon as you put it down? Quietly remain in the vicinity and comfort your little one by talking softly or putting your hand on its back or stomach. Avoid picking your baby up right away unless your child is really upset. This will teach your baby to relax on its own.
What if your baby keeps crying in the cot?
Sometimes a newborn continues to have trouble sleeping in its own bassinet. Crying is a natural way to release tension, but it is important to support your child.
- Try swaddling
Swaddling can convey a sense of security to your baby, similar to when it was in the womb. Use a special swaddling cloth or a swaddling sleeping bag for this.
- White noise
Softly rustling sounds, such as a white noise machine, can help to calm your child.
- Consider the wake-up time
Newborn babies often cannot stay awake for more than one to one and a half hours. By putting your child down in time, you can prevent fatigue.
Read more about the sleep rhythm of a newborn child.
Trust and patience are miracle workers
Teaching your child to sleep in their own cot is a process that requires time and patience. Try different methods and don’t worry even if they are not successful. Every child is unique, and there is no right or wrong.
Remember, great progress often comes in small steps. And remember: your child will eventually learn to sleep on their own, in their own cot. Give your child the time it needs and, above all, follow your instincts. With a little extra help from The Wonder Weeks app, it will gradually become easier to let your little one relax and enjoy a good night’s sleep.
