Safety should always be the top priority when it comes to naptime or bedtime. Babies sleep safest in a cool room, on their back, in a bassinet or crib with a firm mattress. Avoid using pillows, soft bedding, stuffed toys, or any other padding. Overheating during sleep is not safe for babies. Pacifiers are okay, but it’s not recommended to have bottles in the crib. Sleep positioning devices like wedges should only be used if a healthcare provider prescribes them for medical reasons. And remember, it’s not safe for babies to nap in car seats, swings, couches, or on adult beds because it can restrict their breathing or increase the risk of suffocation and falling.
Babies and young children need different amounts of sleep depending on how old they are. Usually, babies start having a regular nap schedule when they’re around 4-6 months old. Newborns and younger babies take shorter naps more often because they need to eat every 2-3 hours. As they grow, they can go longer between feedings, so their naptimes become less frequent and longer.
Even if your baby doesn’t nap at the same time every day, there are things you can do to help them get into a routine. Rocking, singing, playing soft music, reading books, and putting them down when they’re tired can all encourage them to take a nap. Look for signs that your baby is tired, like rubbing their eyes, yawning, looking away, or getting fussy.
Once your baby starts having predictable nap times, it’s important to stick to a consistent daily routine. Try to schedule their naps at the same times every day, and plan other activities around those nap times. For example, if you need to pick up your other kids from school, make sure your baby has finished their nap and diaper change before it’s time to go.
It’s not always easy to stick to a schedule, so be flexible and have a stroller or carrier with you just in case. Missing naps can make for a long day. For toddlers, it’s important not to let them nap too late in the afternoon, or they might have trouble going to bed at their regular bedtime. They should have about 4-5 hours between the end of their nap and bedtime.
Remember that things like teething, illness, growth spurts, travel, holidays, and daylight savings time can affect nap schedules. But as soon as things go back to normal, try to get back into the regular routine.
Babies and children of all ages need opportunities for active playtime to help them sleep better. For babies, this can mean playing with toys, having tummy time, and going for walks in a stroller. Toddlers and young children can play on the playground and use their imagination with toys. Giving them time to play both inside and outside is important.
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Side-Lying Hold
This hold is useful when:
Cross-Cradle Hold
This hold is useful when:
Clutch or “Football” Hold
This hold is useful when:
Cradle Hold
This hold is useful when:
Laid-Back Hold
This hold is useful when: