Congratulations parents! You’ve decided it’s time to transition your baby from their bassinet or pack n’ play to their crib! That’s huge!

 

When should you make the transition?

 

One of the most stressful things for parents is making that transition. You’ll want to move them when you’re comfortable but more importantly when it’s not safe anymore (rolling or when they’ve reached the weight limit of the product). 

 

 

The American Academy of Pediatrics notes to wait until at least 6 months (ideally 1 year), but it’s a personal choice. Many parents make the transition at 4 months when the baby is officially out of the newborn stage and into the infant stage.

I often get asked for tips on how to make it easier especially when I hear “my baby doesn’t like their crib.”

 

So let’s start!

 

The first thing is, it’s not that your baby doesn’t like their crib. It’s that they aren’t used to it. Think about it….you’re used to falling asleep in your bed and then all of the sudden someone puts you on the couch. It’s not what you’re used to, so it’s going to take time. Babies operate the same way. 

 

Here are my favorite tips for helping the transition go a little smoother

 

Room environment

Blackout curtains, room temperature, and white noise are my go-to advice for all the families I work with. Blackout curtains help keep distracting lights out, but more importantly, the lack of light helps produce melatonin which we all need in order to sleep. The white noise resembles the sound they heard in the womb but also blocks out any outside noise, and finally keeps your little one comfortable by maintaining their room temperature between 68-72 degrees. If you think they’re too warm, touch the back of their neck, if it’s sweaty, then it’s too warm for them.

 

Routine

Start your morning routine in their new room, so they become familiar with it. If you’re room sharing, start by placing them in the crib while you brush your teeth or wash your face. Anything that will allow them to become comfortable with their new space.

 

Their Space

Whether they are in their own room or in your room, take them into the room as often as you can. The more, the better to familiarize them with their own space. Feedings, diaper changes, playtime, etc. 

 

 

Familiar Smell

Take their crib sheet and sleep with it so it smells just like you! Babies love comfort.

 

Naps

Work on having them have at least one nap in their crib every day and build from there. Oftentimes, knowing the room isn’t the same as sleeping in it. Typically, the first nap of the day is the easiest. 

 

Sleep Sacks

Consider putting them in a sleep sack. Not only do they act as a blanket, but many cover their limbs while still letting them move around safely and can offer them comfort. 

 

 

Clutter-Free

Keep their crib free of anything and everything. We want them to be safe, but also distraction-free so that they associate their crib specifically with sleep. 

 

Space

If having them in a bigger space makes you nervous, move their bassinet or pack n’ play into their new room before moving them into their crib.

 

Schedule

Start a bedtime routine. They will begin to become familiar with it and no matter what routine becomes your routine, it will send signals to their brain letting them know what’s next. SLEEP!

 

Consistency

Be consistent! Some babies will do just fine and others will take a while to get used to their new space.

 

My favorite tip of all?!

Have them on a schedule or follow an age-appropriate wake window before you make the changes! This allows their little bodies to be ready for sleep, making it a little easier for them to be comfortable in their new space.**

As always, speak with your pediatrician if you have any specific concerns before you make major changes. 

If you’re needing additional support, please feel free to contact me at littleonessleep@gmail.com or at www.littleonessleepsociety.com 

 

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