If you ask any new parents what makes them the most nervous about their new arrival, an unsurprisingly common answer is getting enough sleep. Adequate sleep is crucial for our physical and mental health. A lack of sleep can take a toll on the body as well as negatively affect your mood, exasperate depressive symptoms, and leave you prone to accidents. To make sure you get to rest, we have put together a checklist to assist your little one in getting a good night’s sleep.
Sleepy Time Supplies List
1. Bassinet/Crib/Co-sleeper
You have a plethora of options when it comes to where your baby sleeps. Research and check safety standards for each item so you are completely comfortable with your decision. Bassinets are good for 0-to-3 month-old babies since the tighter space is a smooth transition from a small womb into the big world. Make sure to grab one with wheels for effortless transporting. If you want to co-sleep with the baby in your bed, then a co-sleeper is a great choice to help alleviate the fear of rolling over your baby while you sleep. Since you will eventually have to buy a crib as your baby gets older, many parents prefer to have it right from the very first day.
While there are plenty of adorable crib sets available, the American Academy of Pediatrics warns against having any additional items or loose bedding in the crib as it poses a risk of suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
CRIB
CO-SLEEPER
2. Crib mattress
While a crib mattress is primarily there for your baby’s comfort, it is crucial to have a sturdy surface that doesn’t indent when you place your baby on it. A stiff surface ensures that if your baby were to roll over during the night, they would still have enough separation from the mattress so they do not suffocate.
3. Crib sheet
A tight-fitting sheet will keep your baby comfortable and protect your mattress from accidents while not exposing them to additional risks.
4. A night light projector
A night light provides just enough light for you to safely navigate the room for midnight changes without keeping your baby up all night. There are several options with white noise, projector, lullybuy music, etc. They can certainly help little ones doze off or calm down quickly.
5. Baby swing
Every baby reacts differently to a baby swing, but the gentle rocking motion works wonders in getting baby ready for a nap or bedtime. Check out our BABY SWING LIST for further details.
6. Rocker
Many women claim that rocking with their baby in a rocker not only helps lull their baby to sleep, but also provides some much-needed back pain relief!
7. Room Darkening Curtains:
Black out curtains can quickly change the feel of the room. For a quick afternoon nap, black out curtains can be a blessing.
The most adorable part of putting baby to sleep is dressing them in those endearing pjs sets with all the cuteness in the world. Check out our SLEEPWARE LIST when you are ready to take this ride to the dreamland!
For a baby to get the best night’s sleep possible, you need to let them get tired, but not overtired, feed them well, burp them, and then rock, pat, swing, or sing them into a restful sleep. Daytime naps are almost as important as the full night sleep for a baby until 4 years of age. What can further help you is our post on NAP TIME TIPS.
SLEEP TRAINING PROGRAMS
If you are interested, then check out our blog on sleep training by the peaceful sleeper. This program teaches new parents the skills to put their little one to sleep at night and regular naps through science based and attachment focused interventions.