Putting Baby Down Drowsy But Awake Doesn't Work
For new parents, getting their baby to sleep is one of the biggest challenges they face. And one of the most common pieces of advice they receive is to put their baby down drowsy but awake. The theory is that this will help the baby learn to fall asleep on their own, without needing to be rocked or fed to sleep. However, many parents find that this advice simply doesn't work.
The Problem with Putting Baby Down Drowsy But Awake
The problem with putting a baby down drowsy but awake is that it assumes that babies have the ability to self-soothe and fall asleep on their own. However, research has shown that this is not the case. Babies need to be soothed to sleep, and this often involves being held, rocked, or fed to sleep. When a baby is put down drowsy but awake, they are often still in a state of arousal and are unable to fall asleep on their own.
Additionally, babies have a strong need for physical contact and closeness. Being put down in a crib or bassinet can be a jarring experience for them, and can lead to crying and distress. This can make it even harder for them to fall asleep on their own.
The Importance of Responsive Caregiving
Instead of trying to put a baby down drowsy but awake, it's important for parents to focus on responsive caregiving. This means responding to a baby's cues and needs in a timely and appropriate manner. If a baby is crying, it's important to pick them up and soothe them. If they are hungry, it's important to feed them. By meeting a baby's needs in a responsive way, parents can help them feel safe and secure, which can lead to better sleep.
Responsive caregiving also involves creating a calm and soothing environment for a baby. This can include using white noise machines, dimming the lights, and creating a consistent bedtime routine. By creating a predictable and soothing environment, parents can help their baby feel calm and relaxed, which can make it easier for them to fall asleep.
The Bottom Line
Putting a baby down drowsy but awake may work for some babies, but it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, it's important for parents to focus on responsive caregiving and creating a calm and soothing environment for their baby. By meeting their baby's needs in a responsive way, parents can help them feel safe and secure, which can lead to better sleep for everyone.