By: Deborah Pedrick, Sleep Coach at familysleep.com
Soothing routines before sleep is a cue to your baby that sleep is coming soon, it’s not a means to sleep. The actual act of going to sleep is the job of your baby. When babies become more socially aware (ie smiling) they are also making connections and follow patterns. If we are consistent about our soothing routine, the baby will learn to make that connection. It doesn’t have to be long and complicated. It can be as simple as going into the room, pulling the shades, holding and rocking for a few minutes and then laying your baby down. When you feel that you have successfully provided a cue to sleep and are ready to lay your baby down, make sure that you commit to it. If you hesitate when you put your child down to sleep or quickly pull your baby back into your arms when your child resists, you are sending a negative cue and your baby will react negatively. If you follow through and put your child down to sleep irregardless of the reaction, the child quickly learns that going to sleep is secure, safe and simple.