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As we usher in another year, filled with hopes, dreams, and perhaps a few resolutions, I want to extend my warmest wishes to all the families out there navigating the beautiful chaos of parenting. While I might not be a fervent believer in New Year's resolutions, one thing I'm passionate about is supporting families in achieving their goals. If crib sleep is a goal for your family is on the horizon, you're in for a treat with this mini guide!

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of crib success, it's important to note that crib sleep is not a requirement. If what you're currently doing is working seamlessly for your family, or if the crib isn't in your game plan, that's absolutely okay. The following guide is here as a resource if you choose to embark on the crib sleep journey, but there's no pressure. It’s normal and healthy for babies to sleep in contact with a caregiver! ( PMID: 28544861, PMID: 19010360, PMID: 33924970, PMID: 28506927, PMID: 9143074, PMID: 29183980) And it’s normal for caregivers to want or need a little separation.

Setting the Stage for Success

Before we delve into the steps of the Crib Success Guide, let's establish a foundational mindset: baby sleep is not a linear journey. Changes in your baby's sleep don't have to exhibit improvement every single day. It's perfectly acceptable to experience both successful crib transfers and, inevitably, a few days that feel like crib fails.

How to get your baby sleeping in the crib or bassinet and not in your bed without cry it out. Gentle sleep support for responsive, attachment focused parents.

The Crib Success Guide

Step 1: Building Positive Associations

Start by building positive associations in the crib while your baby is awake for a few days. This step is crucial; your baby needs to perceive the crib as a safe haven to comfortably sleep. Pro tip: enhance this safe feeling by incorporating your scent—spill a little milk on the crib sheet to create a comforting aroma.

Once the crib becomes a comforting space, it's time to move on to the next steps.

Step 2: The Crib Transfer Dance

Soothe your baby to sleep using your normal sleep associations—rocking, nursing, singing, etc.—but do so near the crib. Keep the lighting dim, creating a sleep-friendly environment without total darkness.

Step 3: Slow and Steady Towards the Crib

As you move towards the crib, maintain the same sleep associations, taking slow and deliberate steps. No need to rush; deep breaths can help create a calm atmosphere.

Step 4: The Gentle Descent

Slowly lower your baby into the crib, starting with their bum, and gently roll the rest of their body down. Keep a reassuring hand on their chest, maintaining the continuity of sleep associations.

Step 5: Celebrate Success or Navigate Challenges

If your baby stays asleep in the crib for any amount of time, consider it a success! But if they wake up, no worries. Options abound: soothe them back to sleep and try the crib transfer again, snuggle up for a contact nap, or let them stay awake if that's their vibe.

Step 6: Consistent Practice

Keep practicing the crib transition, but remember, it's okay if things aren't seamless right away. If after a week or two it still feels challenging, take a breather and try again later. Your readiness for separation might not align with your baby's timeline.

Bonus Tip: Variety is the Spice of Sleep

Incorporate a variety of sleep associations—nursing, snuggling, white noise—and maintain consistent sounds and smells throughout your baby's sleep time. This might just help them connect those sleep cycles, if they're ready! If the crib truly isn’t working, your baby might be better suited to a floor bed. Check back next week for a floor bed mini guide!

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Remember, the journey doesn't have to be perfectly linear. Expect bumps along the way.

If you decide to give this guide a shot, I'd love to hear how it goes for you! Share your experiences, triumphs, and challenges.

And for those seeking a more personalized plan, don't hesitate to book a 1:1 consult with me. Here's to a year filled with restful nights and joyous days!

Cheers to a well-rested 2024!