Are you looking for the best guide on how to get baby to sleep earlier? As any parent knows, there is nothing more important than ensuring your child gets a good night’s sleep. Not only does it help them to be better rested and happier during the day, but it can also have a long-term impact on their health and development. So what are some of the best ways to get a baby to sleep earlier? Read through the entire article to find out.
Can Babies Sleep Earlier Than Usual?
There is no hard and fast rule regarding how early a baby can start sleeping. However, it’s not uncommon for most babies to begin settling down into their nighttime routine around 6-8 weeks of age. Before this time, they may sleep more during the day than at night but should usually wake up reasonably close to the same time each morning. Falling asleep earlier than normal can be tricky, and parents may need to experiment with different strategies to find a routine that works for their baby.
Read more: Why Do Babies Smile In Their Sleep?
How To Get Baby To Sleep Earlier
So, how do you get your child to sleep early? Here are some tips that might come in handy.
Developing a Routine
Creating a calming evening routine that helps your little one relax before bedtime can be extremely helpful in getting them to sleep earlier. This could include bath time, reading stories, or playing soothing music together. Allowing enough time for winding down before bedtime will help prepare your baby for the night ahead and get them sleepy. setting a consistent bedtime routine will help the kid adapt to it easily and even get to sleep longer.
Reduce Stimulation
Babies respond best to quiet environments, and being away from too much stimulation can help them settle down faster. This means limiting noise or lights that might keep your baby active or up past earlier bedtime. If possible, stick to a similar environment every night for your baby to recognize it as time for sleeping. The baby’s bedtime will become part of their routine, and eventually, they’ll automatically start to feel tired around the same time each night.
Create The Ideal Sleeping Environment
Ensuring the room is comfortable and warm enough is essential for a good night’s sleep. A dark, cool room helps promote better sleep, so make sure you are mindful of the conditions in which your little one sleeps. You could also try adding white noise, such as a fan or an app if it helps create a soothing atmosphere. How much sleep your baby needs also depends on their age, so make sure you’re aware of the recommended amount for your little one.
Soothing Techniques
If your baby is showing signs of distress before bedtime, there are some calming strategies you can use to help soothe them. Gentle rocking, shushing, or singing are good ways to calm a fussy baby. You could also try using a pacifier or other comforting items they may take comfort in while helping lull them into a deeper sleep.
Put the Baby to Bed While They Are Still Awake
Putting a baby to bed while still awake can help them learn to self-soothe and establish better sleep habits. Doing this also lets your baby know what is expected of them when it comes time for them to sleep. Moreover, it prevents them from associating sleep with being held or rocked, which can be challenging to break in the future.
Avoid Letting the Baby Sleep in Your Bed
Sharing a bed with your baby can give them the wrong idea and make it harder to transition them into their own sleeping space. If you need to share a bed, try to limit this as much as possible and avoid developing any sleep associations that could make it more difficult for your little one to learn how to put themselves back to sleep.
Read more: What Color Light Helps Babies Sleep?
Check on Them Periodically Throughout the Night
It can feel like a battle to get your baby to sleep earlier, but don’t despair! One way to help ease this process is to check on them periodically throughout the night. This may sound counterintuitive, but it could have a calming effect because your presence can reassure them that they are not alone and you are nearby.
Space out these visits every two or three hours, in case they need something while providing gentle reminders that it’s time for bed. Similarly, if your baby wakes up earlier in the night than usual, resist the urge to soothe them immediately; instead, allow them a few minutes to settle back into dreamland on their own. Keeping these two strategies in mind can help your little one learn that nighttime is designated for sleeping and provide peace of mind.
Factor In Their Age
It is important to remember that every baby’s sleep schedule will differ depending on their age and individual needs. For example, newborns may not be able to stay asleep for longer than two or three hours at a time, so don’t expect them to fall asleep through the night just yet. Establishing an age-appropriate routine can help your baby become accustomed to sleeping earlier as they grow older and their nighttime sleep patterns change.
Safety
This should always be your top priority regarding your baby’s sleep. Make sure you have a safe crib, mattress, and bedding, so their sleep environment is comfortable and secure every night. Additionally, avoid sleeping with blankets or pillows near them to reduce the risk of suffocation or SIDS. If you need extra guidance on creating a safe sleeping space for your little one, do not hesitate to reach out to healthcare professionals who can provide further advice.
Limit Your Expectations
It can be challenging to get a baby or toddler on a regular sleep schedule, especially when they are still learning the ropes. Therefore it’s important to remember that progress will take time, and you should not be too hard on yourself if your little one is not sleeping through the night. Be patient and appreciate the small successes — such as putting them down early or getting them down for naps ahead of time — that ultimately contribute to better sleep practices.
Read more: Is It Ok To Put Baby To Sleep Without Burping?
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, every parent wants their child to have healthy sleep habits; however, it can be challenging to establish these practices from day one. Remember that finding the right approach may take trial and error. Still, there are many ways you can help encourage better sleep habits, such as setting up a regular and earlier bedtime routine, avoiding sleep associations, and checking in periodically throughout the night.
