- Establish a bedtime routine: A consistent bedtime routine can help signal to your baby that it's time to sleep. This routine may include activities like a warm bath, a bedtime story, gentle music, or dimming the lights.
- Create a soothing sleep environment: Make sure your baby's sleep environment is conducive to sleep. This includes a comfortable crib or bassinet, a room that is dark and quiet, and a comfortable room temperature.
- Encourage self-soothing: Teaching your baby to self-soothe can help them learn to fall back asleep on their own when they wake during the night. This may involve putting your baby down drowsy but awake so they learn to fall asleep independently.
- Establish a consistent bedtime: Consistency is key when it comes to sleep. Try to establish a consistent bedtime each night and a consistent wake-up time each morning.
- Watch for sleepy cues: Try to put your baby down for a nap or bedtime when they are showing signs of being tired, such as rubbing their eyes, yawning, or becoming fussy.
- Avoid overstimulation before bedtime: Try to keep the hour before bedtime calm and quiet. Avoid stimulating activities like loud play or screen time, as these can make it harder for your baby to wind down.
- Feed your baby adequately: Make sure your baby is well-fed before bedtime to help prevent hunger from waking them up during the night. However, avoid feeding your baby right before bedtime to prevent them from associating feeding with falling asleep.
Consider sleep training: If your baby is older and still struggling to sleep through the night, you may consider gentle sleep training methods to help them learn to self-soothe and sleep for longer stretches.