How To Get Your Newborn To Sleep in a Bassinet
Getting your newborn to sleep in a bassinet can be a tricky but rewarding endeavor. Proper preparation and patience are key to success. Here are a few tips to get your baby sleeping in their bassinet:
Create a Bedtime Routine
Creating a consistent, calming bedtime routine can help your little one to feel safe and secure before sleep. This could include dimming the lights and giving a warm, gentle bath, followed by a relaxing massage and other soothing activities.
Maintain a Regular Sleep Schedule
Creating a regular sleep schedule for your baby is important for creating a healthy and even temperament. This includes having their bedtime and wake up times around the same time each day.
Choose a Comfortable Bassinet
A comfortable bassinet that is large enough for your baby and is not too noisy or bright will help your newborn get a good night’s sleep. Make sure the mattress is cushioned and supportive enough for your baby’s size and sleeping position.
Establish Good Sleep Habits Early
Establishing soothing sleep behaviors and habits as early as possible will help your newborn learn to self-soothe and become motivated to sleep. This might include:
- Providing white noise. White noise can help to block out more disruptive sounds and provide your baby with a sense of calm.
- Swaddling. Swaddling your baby can give them the close, comforting feeling they need to be reassured and drift off to sleep.
- Having a consistent sleep song. Playing the same lullaby each night can become a calming signal of sleep time to your little one.
Limit Stimulation
Limit stimulation for your baby before bedtime, such as dimming the lights and reducing noise. You could also feed your baby a few ounces before bedtime so she will be full for the night.
With a little patience and consistency, you can teach your newborn to sleep in a bassinet. Create a routine and establish good sleep practices from the start, and you and your baby can rest easy.