Help…Baby’s Not Sleeping
When baby’s not sleeping well, chances are good that no one else is getting much shut-eye… least of all Mom or Dad.
If you ask any new parent what they want the most, they will probably list firstly, good health for their baby, and secondly, good sleeping patterns for their baby, and subsequently, for themselves.
Baby specialists say that most newborn babies can be expected to fuss or cry for approximately two to three hours in any given day, or night. And it is almost instinctive for the parents to rush to their baby’s side on the first whimper, regardless of how many times they tell themselves that the baby’s alright.
Baby experts encourage parents to train babies to fall asleep on their own as early as possible. They say that when babies get used to falling asleep only when in close physical contact with someone, they tend to have difficulty regulating their own sleeping patterns.
When baby’s not sleeping well, you can of course, hold him for a while. Experts, however, recommend placing the baby in the crib while still awake and allowing him or her to drift off to sleep on his own.
Wait till the baby’s eyes are just about to close, then lay him gently down. It is likely he will wake up or at least startle. If he starts crying, check on him frequently, making sure he is not hungry, too hot or cold, or needs changing, but resist the temptation to pick him up and cuddle him.
This is considered to be good practice that will pay off in spades later when baby gets used to falling asleep without being held. When baby’s not sleeping well, everyone has a hard time, so help him develop good sleeping habits.
Don’t be concerned about neglecting your baby by doing this, rather tell yourself you are helping modify your baby’s sleeping habits — for the better.
Don’t bring baby into your bed. There are co-sleeper cribs available that attach to the side of the parents’ bed. This may make it easier for both baby and parent, as there is still a distinction between bed and crib, but the parent can simply turn to the baby at night for feeding or checking on. However, move the baby to his own space as soon as possible to get everyone sleeping soundly again.
If you’re feeling grumpy from lack of sleep, here’s a video that may cheer you up!
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