3 tips for helping your baby sleep through the night
You want your baby to sleep well and be safe in their crib, but all the rules can be confusing for new parents.
The biggest fear for any mom after a long day is the scenario where the baby wakes up several times during the night.
Waking up is always accompanied by crying that echoes through the room in the “dead of night,” taking the baby out of the crib and rocking them in your arms until they fall back asleep.
This can sometimes last for hours, making every minute during the night feel like an eternity for the mom. Here’s what you need to know about safe and healthy ways to get your baby to sleep. Share a Room, But Not a Bed
If your baby sleeps in your room for at least the first six months (ideally up to a year), it can make nighttime feeding easier if you’re breastfeeding.
You should avoid sharing the same bed.
Always keep your baby in their crib or bassinet, as pillows and blankets in your bed can pose a risk.
There are also additional risks, such as the baby falling out of the bed or someone accidentally rolling over onto them during the night. Put Your Baby to Sleep in a Crib or Bassinet
It’s up to you whether your newborn sleeps in a crib or bassinet when you first bring them home.
The baby can also sleep in a playpen with a soft mattress or a portable crib.
Whatever you choose, the product should meet the latest safety guidelines. Choose the Right Formula
The benefits of milk before bedtime are well-known, as it helps the baby gradually drift off to sleep. This happens because milk contains tryptophan, an amino acid that causes drowsiness.
If you’re not breastfeeding, make sure to find a formula that is enriched with inulin, which is good for the baby’s immune system and digestive tract. Inulin is a prebiotic that stimulates the growth of beneficial bacteria (probiotics).