Newborns have a natural tendency to seek comfort and security from their mothers or caregivers. This is largely due to their need for warmth,熟悉感和 the sound of their heartbeat.
Being held close to the parent's body provides a sense of security for babies. They can hear their heartbeat and feel their warmth, which can remind them of the closeness they felt in the womb.
Furthermore, when held, babies can also regulate their body temperature, which can affect their sleep. A caregiver's body temperature can help warm up or cool down a baby's body, ensuring that they stay comfortable and cozy while sleeping. Therefore, when newborns wake up quickly after being transferred to their cribs, it's largely because the experience is so starkly different to where they were sleeping.
Practical Tips for Helping Your Baby Sleep Alone
While it can be challenging to transition your newborn to independent sleep, there are a few practical tips that can help:
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Avoid pushing your baby's wake windows: Newborns who are overtired may fight sleep. Using a Smart Sleep Coach App with 1-click sleep tracking and dynamic scheduling as well as 'SleepyTime' notifications can help you know when the perfect time is for sleep.
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Set up a sleep nourishing environment: A dark, cool, and peaceful space is ideal. If you can end your bedtime routine in this space, it will make the transition to crib and ultimately falling asleep much easier.
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Establish a consistent bedtime routine: Newborns thrive on routine and predictability, so having a consistent bedtime routine can help them feel more relaxed and ready for sleep. You can include activities such as a warm bath, gentle massage, lullabies, or storytime to help settle your baby down and cue them it's time for sleep.
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Use a swaddle or sleep sack: Swaddling or using a sleep sack can help recreate the feeling of being held and provide a sense of comfort and security for your baby. Just make sure to follow safe sleep guidelines and avoid overheating.
Overall, by following these practical tips and creating a calm and soothing environment for your newborn, you can help them transition from contact naps to independent sleeping. It may take some time and effort, but with patience and persistence, your little one will eventually learn to sleep on their own.
