The Pros and Cons of Getting Baby to Sleep in a Crib
If you’re a new parent, you may be wondering whether you should start your baby sleep in a crib or not. There are pros and cons to both sleeping methods, so it’s important to weigh each option before making a decision.
The Pros: Baby Sleeps In A Crib
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that babies sleep in their cribs from birth until at least 6 months old. This is because sleeping in a crib is the safest sleep environment for infants. When babies sleep in their own space, they’re less likely to be injured or suffocate.
Cribs also give babies the opportunity to develop their own sleep habits and routines. If you start your baby off sleeping in your bed, they may have trouble falling asleep on their own later on. But if they learn how to fall asleep in their crib from the beginning, they’ll be more likely to continue this habits as they get older.
The Cons: Baby Won’t Sleep In A Crib
One of the main reasons parents don’t put their baby in a crib is because they’re afraid the infant won’t be able to fall asleep on their own. And while this is a valid concern, there are ways to help your baby adjust to sleeping in their new environment. For example, you can try using white noise or setting up a bedtime routine that includes spending some time in the crib before falling asleep. With some patience and effort, most babies will eventually learn how to fall asleep on their own in a crib.
Another downside of having baby sleep in a crib is that it can make night feedings and diaper changes more difficult. If your infant is used to sleeping next to you in bed, it can be disruptive (and even stressful) to have to get up and out of bed several times during the night
How to Get Baby to Sleep in a Crib
If you want your baby to sleep in the crib, there are a few things you can do. Put your baby in the crib when they are sleepy but not yet asleep. You may need to do some sleep training, but it will be worth it in the end. Make sure the crib is safe for your baby to sleep in. You may need to put a blanket or stuffed animal in the crib so your baby feels comfortable and safe. If your baby is going through a sleep regression, try napping with them in the crib so they get used to sleeping in their new environment.
When Should You Start worrying If Baby isn’t Sleeping in the Crib?
Most experts recommend that you start trying to get your baby to sleep in their crib around 4 months old. At this age, babies are developmentally ready to start sleeping for longer periods of time and are less likely to wake up often during the night. However, some babies may take longer to adjust to sleeping in a crib and may need a little extra help from you. If your baby is not sleeping in their crib by 6 months old, you should talk to your pediatrician about it.
There are a few things you can do to help your baby adjust to sleeping in their crib:
1) Make sure the crib is in a quiet, dark room – This will help cue your baby that it is time for sleep.
2) Put your baby down drowsy but awake – This will give them a chance to practice falling asleep on their own.
3) Don’t let them cry it out – Crying it out can be traumatic for both you and your baby. Try other methods of soothing such as patting or rocking first.
If you’re concerned that your baby isn’t sleeping in their crib, talk to your pediatrician about it. They can give you more specific advice based on your child’s individual needs.