Every parent’s dream is to put a baby to sleep in 40 seconds. Well, we can tell you that it isn’t impossible!
Our little ones are our world. They are the excitement of our life. But they sometimes give us a hard time by not going to sleep.
We all have tried different methods to manage our babies’ sleeping habits. But most of these methods don’t really work.
So, in this article, we’ll introduce you to the 40-second baby sleep routine and help you avoid sleepless nights.
Setting the Stage for Sleep
If you want your little ones to fall asleep quicker, you must set a stage for sleep first. That includes:
- Creating a calming environment;
- Gentle pre-sleep activities;
· Creating a Calming Environment
Peaceful accommodation is useful for both parents and babies. Having a comfy bed or couch can help you relieve yourself from all the stress.
For your baby, use a comfortable baby bed and blanket, and you can even put a baby carousel above the bed.
Reduce as much noise as you can. So, put your phone on silent mode! Create a more comfortable atmosphere by dimming the lights.
Don’t forget about the room temperature! According to experts, the perfect room temperature for babies ranges from 16°C-20°C or 62°F-68°F.
· Gentle Pre-Sleep Activities
Continue with quiet, peaceful, and soothing activities such as singing soft lullabies, reading bedtime stories, soothing baths, and gentle massages.
But please don’t be persistent in bathing your baby every night. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, common bathing can dry a baby’s skin.
You can also give your babies a pacifier or their favorite toy. That way babies feel comfortable and can easily fall asleep.
The 40-Second Baby Sleep Routine
In the following paragraphs, we’ll break down the 40-second baby sleep routine and teach you how to do it.
· Step 1: Comfortable Positioning
The first step in the 40-second baby sleep routine is making sure that your baby is in a comfortable position.
Babies need to feel secure and safe so hold your baby close and try to find a position that your baby likes.
You must be aware of your baby’s head and neck as well. Babies can’t support their head and neck by themselves so support them with your hand.
· Step 2: Rhythmic Patting
The next step is using a gentle patting motion on your baby’s back or bottom while holding it closely. That motion makes your baby feel like it’s still in mommy’s stomach, making it easier for it to fall asleep.
A steady and calming rhythm relaxes your baby. When your baby is calm and relaxed you can slow down your movements.
Rhythmic patting and skin-to-skin contact can also help create a strong bond and emotional connection between parent and baby.
· Step 3: Soothing Shushing
Rhythmic patting should be accompanied by soothing shushing. Ah yes, the classic “Shh” sound. We’ve all grown up hearing it.
Repetitive and soothing shushing gives babies a pleasant feeling of calmness like they experience in mommy’s stomach.
Keep your tone gentle, warm, and calm so that your babies can feel secure and cozy. And never forget to be quiet!
· Step 4: Mindful Breathing
Babies are sensitive to the mother’s feelings and emotions. So, if the mother is stressed, the baby will have trouble falling asleep.
A mother needs to be calm and relaxed so her baby can sense her calmness and fall asleep peacefully.
Mothers should take calm breaths themselves and try syncing their breathing with their babies. That way, it’s easier for the baby to fall asleep.
· Step 5: Gradual Transition
You have reached the point where your baby is calm, relaxed, and almost asleep. But the job’s not done!
Gently and slowly reduce your patting movements and soothing shushing, and observe your baby’s behavior.
That doesn’t mean you should stop though. Just lower the intensity of the patting and soothing shushing. Be careful, and gently put your baby in its crib or other sleeping space. And never forget to be calm!
Let your baby ease into sleep and watch its little cute eyes close. These parenting moments are truly wonderful.
Safety Considerations
There are many safety considerations when you put your baby to bed. After all, babies are as fragile as they’re cute.
The first thing you should keep in mind is putting your baby to sleep on its back. It’s dangerous for a baby to sleep on its stomach!
Remove any loose bedding, toys, or pillows in the baby’s sleep space. Even small plush toys can cause trouble.
Lastly, don’t overheat your baby. Wrapping your baby in a thousand blankets won’t make it more comfortable and safer!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can the 40-second routine work for all babies?
The 40-second routine method works for infants between two weeks and six months old. As the baby grows, you should try out different methods.
Should I use white noise along with the routine?
You can use white noise along with the routine but don’t overuse it.
What if my baby resists the routine?
If your baby resists the sleeping routine you should be persistent and try again. Keep in mind that you should never lose your calm and remain gentle.
Is there a specific time when I should do this routine?
The best time for this routine is before bedtime at night.
Can I use this routine for naps as well?
The method is good for establishing good sleeping habits and you can use it for naps as well.
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