12 Ways to Get Your Baby to Sleep Without Being Carried, Suitable for New Parents

Illustration (Freepik)

YOGYAKARTA - If you are reading this article while holding a sleeping baby, rest assured you are not alone. Many parents experience the same thing, especially when babies always wake up as soon as they are moved from their arms to their beds. This situation can feel exhausting, especially if it happens repeatedly every day and night.

Don't worry, because babies can actually learn to sleep without being carried gradually. Yes, the process does require patience and consistency, but it is very possible to do. How? Read the following article to the end.

Why Do Babies Like to Sleep While Being Carried?

As reported by Newton Baby, babies love to sleep while being carried because the hug gives them a sense of security that is very familiar to them. Since birth, babies recognize the world through touch, smell, and sound, including the warmth of their parents' bodies. When carried, babies feel protected, warm, and close to their main source of comfort.

In addition to the comfort factor, it could also be due to the Moro reflex or the startle reflex. When the baby is placed down, a sensation of falling can trigger this reflex and make the baby wake up suddenly. This reflex is normal until the age of about four months.

Another reason is a habit that is formed over time. If the baby always falls asleep in the sling, his brain will associate sleep with hugs. This is what makes it difficult for babies to sleep in other ways if they are not helped by the right transition.

12 Ways to Get Your Baby Used to Sleeping Without Being Carried

As previously mentioned, the process is not instantaneous and requires extra patience from parents. Every baby has different rhythms and needs, so not all methods have to be applied at once.

Dilansir dari laman yang sama, berikut ini 12 cara membiasakan bayi tidur tanpa digendong yang bisa dicoba secara perlahan dan disesuaikan dengan kondisi si kecil. 1.

Keep Track of Baby's Sleeping Patterns

The first step is to recognize your baby's sleep patterns. Pay attention to when the baby is usually sleepy, how long the nap is, and the bedtime. This pattern helps parents determine the right time to sleep.

Although the pattern of a baby's sleep changes with age, simple notes are very helpful. By understanding his rhythm, you can avoid putting your baby to sleep when he is too fussy. Babies who are sleepy enough usually fall asleep easier without being carried.

Build a Consistent Sleep Routine

Sleep routines help babies recognize the signal that it's time to rest. Activities such as dimming the lights, bathing the baby, or reading stories can be done in sequence. Consistency is much more important than the number of activities.

The same routine every day makes babies feel safe and ready to sleep. Slowly, babies will associate this routine with rest time. This makes it easier to transition to sleep without a carrier.

Put Baby to Sleep When Sleepy, Not When Asleep

A common mistake parents make is waiting for the baby to actually fall asleep before putting them down. In fact, babies need to learn to fall asleep on their own in their crib. Put the baby down when his eyes are heavy but still awake.

This way helps babies recognize their sleeping environment. If they wake up in the middle of the night, they won't be surprised because they are in the same place. At first it may be difficult, but over time the baby will get used to it.

Use Soft Touch, Not Carrying

If the baby wakes up after being put down, try to calm down without holding him directly. Gently stroke the baby's back, hands, or head. This touch gives a sense of security without restarting the sleep process.

Babies don't often just need to be reassured that their parents are still there. With this approach, babies learn to calm themselves.

Pay attention to the room temperature

The temperature of the room greatly affects the comfort of the baby's sleep. A room that is too hot or cold can make the baby restless. Experts recommend setting the temperature of the room in your baby's room to a range that is comfortable for adults with thin clothes.

Avoid using blankets because they are risky for babies. The right sleepwear and fitted sheets are enough. A comfortable environment makes it easier for babies to sleep without the help of a carrier.

Make sure the bed is comfortable.

Babies will not be comfortable sleeping independently if their bed is not comfortable. A good mattress, soft sheets, and a safe surface have a lot of influence. A comfortable sleeping environment helps replace the warmth of a hug.

A bed that supports air circulation is also important. Babies who feel comfortable tend to sleep longer. This makes the transition process go more smoothly.

Create a Sleep-Supporting Environment

Babies can't distinguish between day and night. Bright light and noise can disturb their sleep. Use dim lights and light curtains at night.

A consistent environment helps babies understand sleep time. This makes it easier for babies to sleep without being carried.

Avoid Breastfeeding Until Baby Falls Asleep

Breastfeeding is soothing, but it can be a habit that is difficult to stop. If the baby always falls asleep while breastfeeding, he will associate sleep with the activity. As a result, it is difficult for babies to sleep without breastfeeding.

Try breastfeeding before the sleep routine begins. This helps the baby learn to sleep in other ways.

Consider Bedding

Bedding helps babies feel safe like in the womb. This method also reduces the startle reflex that often wakes up babies. Many babies sleep more soundly when they are covered.

However, it is only safe until the baby can't roll over. After that, baby swaddling is no longer safe. Consider switching to a baby sleeping bag.

Use Dot as a Helper Tool

Sucking a dot has a calming effect on babies. The dot can help babies fall asleep without having to be carried. This can be a safe alternative compared to breastfeeding to fall asleep.

If the baby wakes up and is fussy, the dot can help calm them down. Use the dot as needed. Not all babies are suitable, but it's worth trying.

Overcome Digestive Problems

Digestive problems can make babies difficult to sleep. Make sure the baby burps well after breastfeeding. Gentle pressure on the back can help release gas.

If the baby often seems uncomfortable when lying down, pay attention to the possibility of suffering from reflux. Consult a pediatrician if the complaint continues. Comfort has a great influence on sleep quality.

Give Baby Time to Calm Down

The instinct of parents is to immediately approach when the baby cries. However, in terms of putting the baby to sleep without being carried, this can be counterproductive. Sometimes, the baby only wakes up for a moment and can fall asleep again on his own.

Try waiting a few minutes before responding. This gives the baby a chance to learn to calm down.

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