If your baby won't sleep in the bassinet, it can be extremely physically and mentally draining.  In these situations, your baby usually prefers to sleep on you or in your arms. At first, you may have found this adorable and loved the cuddles. However, as the weeks go by, you may find yourself being held captive and having other things that need your attention. If you're finding it difficult to balance everything, here are a few tips that may help:


If you're finding that your newborn won't sleep in the bassinet, there are a few things you can do to help. Try these four tips:

 

  • It can be tough getting a baby to sleep, especially when they're so little. One trick that may help is to focus on the first nap of the day. This is usually the easiest nap to get a baby down for. Try the pick up and put down method to help make it happen. Put them down and offer comfort with touch and verbally shsh.. Give your baby 2-3 minutes to settle, if they are getting wound up, pick them up and calm them and then try again. With a little patience, you may find it easier to get your baby to take a much-needed nap.

 

  • It's important to keep in mind the timing of sleep when caring for a newborn. Most newborns need to be back to sleep between 45 minutes and 1 hour up to 2 months, and about 1.5 hours in the 3rd month. If you surpass this time, it can be harder to get your baby to fall asleep and stay asleep. 

 

  • Swaddling- can be especially beneficial for newborns, who are adjusting to life outside the womb. However, it is important to make sure that the baby’s face is not covered by the blanket and that the blanket is not too tight. Otherwise, swaddling can become dangerous. If you are unsure about how to swaddle your baby, there are many helpful online tutorials or you can ask your paediatrician for guidance.

 

  • Move the bassinet a few feet away from your bed- It can be distracting for both of you to have them so close, and moving the bassinet away may help you both get a better night's sleep. If you're concerned about your baby being too far away, you can always keep a monitor nearby to stay tuned in to their breathing and movements. Creating a little distance between you and your baby may help everyone get the rest they need.


As a sleep consultant, I've helped countless parents get their children to sleep through the night. One of the techniques that I often recommend is placing your child down on their side, holding them like you would give them a hug, and then gently jiggling them until they are in a deeper sleep. Once they are in a deep sleep, you can then roll them onto their back. Before leaving the room, I always recommend placing your hand on their chest for a few moments to make sure they are stable. This technique has worked not only with my clients but also with my own twins. Give it a try tonight and see if it works for you!