In the world of baby products, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of items marketed as “must-haves.” However, I believe that when it comes to sleep, less is more. A baby truly only needs a safe crib or bassinet and a few swaddles. You don’t need to waste your money on all of the things.
I believe, if you live in a noisy city, a sound machine can be helpful. Still, even then, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends using it at the lowest volume possible, moving it away from your baby’s crib, and turning it off once your baby is asleep.
Sleep can be straightforward with the right education. You don’t need all of the props and gadgets that clutter the market and drain your wallet. By focusing on the essentials and creating a peaceful sleep environment, you can help your baby (and yourself) get the rest you need.
Consider the Lighting: Use dimmable lights or soft, warm lamps for bedtime. Avoid bright lights, especially during nighttime feedings or diaper changes, to help your baby differentiate between day and night. Dim lights also prevents increased stimulation during night feeds so your baby will have an easier time falling back to sleep after feed. In my opinion, avoiding night lights for babies and toddlers can lead to more restful sleep. Research has shown that sleeping in the dark is the best way to promote quality rest. Some studies suggest that night lights can affect melatonin release, so I encourage parents to steer clear of them.
Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment: Invest in a comfortable crib mattress and breathable bedding. Ensure the room temperature is suitable for your baby’s comfort, ideally between 68-72°F (20-22°C).
Organize for Efficiency: Keep essential items like diapers, wipes, and pacifiers within easy reach. A well-organized nursery can help you navigate nighttime routines more efficiently which allows you and your baby to fall back to sleep more easily after night feeds.
Safety First: It’s crucial to follow safe sleeping guidelines to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Place your baby on their back to sleep, use a firm mattress with a fitted sheet, and avoid soft bedding, pillows, and stuffed animals in the crib. Keep the crib clear of any loose items that could pose a suffocation hazard. Additionally, consider using a sleep sack instead of loose blankets to keep your baby warm while reducing the risk of suffocation. Following these guidelines can help create a safe sleep environment for your baby.
Establish a Bedtime Routine: A consistent bedtime routine can help signal to your baby that it’s time to wind down. Include activities like reading a book, singing a song, and keeping stimulation to a minimum to maintain a calm and soothing environment which will enhance your child’s sleep.
Monitor the Room: Use a baby monitor with a video feature to keep an eye on your baby without disturbing their sleep. This can provide peace of mind and allow you to respond quickly if your baby needs you. I often suggest to my clients the importance of not constantly staring at the baby monitor, as it can heighten anxiety. If you can hear your baby in your home, consider turning off the monitor sound to reduce unnecessary stress. Once your baby is asleep, it’s perfectly fine to go about your day without fixating on the monitor. This can help decrease anxiety and allow you to focus on other tasks. My favorite monitor: Nanit Pro Camera
Creating a sleep-friendly nursery is not only beneficial for your baby but also for you as a parent. A calm and cozy environment can help promote better sleep for your little one, leading to happier and healthier days ahead!
Feeling overwhelmed by all this sleep talk? Need a little extra guidance? Dive into my ‘Pick My Brain’ consultation! In our 1-hour one-on-one session, we’ll break down the cheat sheet details and customize them to fit your child’s specific needs. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan to establish healthy sleep habits for your little one. Don’t hesitate to reach out for that extra support!
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