Soothing Infant: Perks, Actions, and Methods by Age Group
Newborn babies (0-3 months) often require a more nurturing approach to sleep. Swaddling, white noise, and skin-to-skin contact can help newborns feel secure and comforted, promoting relaxation and aiding in sleep.
As infants (4-6 months) grow, they can begin to learn self-soothing skills. The side-settling technique, which involves swaddling, dark environments, white noise, and gentle rocking, can help infants settle and fall asleep. The pick-up/put-down method and the check and console method, variations of the Ferber method, can also help babies learn to fall asleep independently.
Older infants (6-12 months) may be able to self-soothe more effectively. The Ferber method, a structured approach that involves gradually increasing the time left between check-ins, can help infants learn self-soothing. Consistent bedtime routines also play a crucial role in signalling to the infant that it's time for sleep.
Toddlers (1-3 years) can benefit from consistent bedtime routines, such as storytelling or singing, to help signal sleep time. Encouraging toddlers to dress and prepare for bed independently can promote self-soothing skills. Positive reinforcement, such as praising them for sleeping through the night or settling down quickly, can reinforce good sleep habits.
It's important to choose methods that align with the baby's age and developmental readiness. Putting older babies to bed drowsy, but not asleep, can encourage self-soothing. A small percentage of babies do not begin to self-soothe by 3-6 months, and some may struggle to self-soothe at all. Soothing an older baby without picking them up, such as by rubbing their back or shushing them, can help them self-soothe.
Establishing a sleep routine and healthy sleep habits from birth may help the baby sleep well later on. Giving older babies a separate sleep space can also help them self-soothe. If a baby is frequently waking up at 6 months or older, caregivers may wish to speak to a pediatrician.
The benefits of self-soothing may be more noticeable for parents and caregivers, as sleep problems in infants are associated with higher levels of distress and depression. It's important to see a doctor if a parent or caregiver feels depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed because of sleep deprivation.
There are many approaches to encouraging self-soothing, ranging from gradual methods to the extinction method (or "cry it out"). Allowing older babies to sleep with a security object (if the child is old enough) can help with sleep. It's important to see a doctor if a baby struggles with sleep because they are in pain, have reflux, or seem unusually anxious.
A 2020 study found that CIO methods did not have a negative effect on babies' attachments to their caregivers and that this method decreased crying overall at night. It's normal for babies to wake at night during their first 12 months of life. Being warm and affectionate at bedtime can make the baby feel safe.
There is no conclusive evidence that babies who can self-soothe are more healthy than those who cannot. However, establishing healthy sleep habits from birth may help the baby sleep well later on. It's important to see a doctor if a baby is not gaining weight or begins losing weight after sleeping for longer periods. If a parent or caregiver needs help deciding whether it is safe to sleep-train a baby who was either premature or has health conditions, it's important to see a doctor.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness and family-health, learning self-soothing skills in infancy can contribute to better sleep later on, potentially reducing stress and depression among caregivers.
- Predictive science suggests that a gradual and consistent approach to bedtime routines and sleep training, such as the Ferber method, may help infants and toddlers develop self-soothing skills.
- To promote a sense of security and comfort, using techniques like swaddling, white noise, and skin-to-skin contact can be beneficial for newborns, providing a sanctuary that inspires sleep.
- As infants approach eczema-prone ages, it is essential to ensure their sleep environment is comfortable, promoting both healthy skin and restful slumber.
- Regular exercise and fitness-and-exercise can aid not only physical health but also mental well-being, ultimately influencing sleep quality.
- Research has shown that the cry-it-out method, when practiced appropriately, does not negatively impact attachment between babies and caregivers, although it is always crucial to consult with a pediatrician before implementing such methods.
