As a parent, you know that getting your little one to sleep can be a challenge. Sometimes, it seems like nothing you do can calm them down and lull them to sleep. But don’t worry, there are a few simple tricks you can try to help your baby drift off to dreamland in less than a minute.
Tips for Putting Your Baby to Sleep in Less Than a Minute
1. The tissue trick
This one is a bit strange, but it surprisingly works for many babies. Simply take a tissue and lightly stroke your baby’s face with it, moving in a slow, gentle motion. This mimics the sensation of being stroked in the womb, which can help them relax and fall asleep.
2. The white noise machine
White noise, like the sound of a fan or hairdryer, can help to block out other sounds and create a calming environment for your baby. It can also be helpful to transition them from awake to asleep, as the white noise will gradually fade into the background.
3. Running water
The sound of running water can be very soothing to babies. Try taking them into the bathroom and turning on the faucet, or run a warm bath for them. The gentle splashing and trickling sounds can help to relax them and put them to sleep.
4. Shh, swing & swaddle
The combination of shushing, swinging, and swaddling can be a powerful lullaby for babies. The shushing sound is reminiscent of the heartbeat they heard in the womb, while the swinging and swaddling provide a sense of security and comfort.
5. Use touch to relax them
Gently massage your baby’s back, legs, and feet to help them relax. You can also try applying gentle pressure to their forehead or temples. These techniques can help to release tension and promote sleep.
6. Chanting
Chanting or humming a soft, repetitive tune can be very calming for babies. It’s a soothing sound that can help to lull them to sleep.
7. Use calming lotions at bedtime
Apply a calming lotion to your baby’s skin before bedtime. The scent of lavender or chamomile can help to relax them and promote sleep.
Things to Avoid When Putting Your Baby to Sleep
In addition to using these tricks, there are a few things you should avoid doing when putting your baby to sleep:
1. Letting them nap too late
Naps should be limited to the morning or early afternoon. Napping too close to bedtime can make it harder for your baby to fall asleep at night.
2. Extending bedtime or ignoring sleep cues
Put your baby to bed at the same time every night, even on weekends. This will help to regulate their sleep schedule. And be sure to pay attention to their sleep cues, such as yawning and rubbing their eyes, so you can put them to bed when they’re tired.
3. Not having a regular bedtime routine
A bedtime routine can help to signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep. This could include a bath, a massage, and some quiet reading.
4. Not being consistent with your partner
If you have a partner, it’s important to be consistent with your bedtime routine and sleep schedule. This will help to avoid confusing your baby and make it easier for them to fall asleep.
Putting a baby to sleep can be a challenge, but with a little patience and these simple tricks, you can help your little one drift off to dreamland in no time.
