A comfortable, safe, sleep environment is helpful in making both nap time and bedtime easier it has also proven to assist in lengthening out sleep durations.
Your baby can sleep in a crib/bassinet in your room or in a crib/bassinet in their own room. The Canadian Paediatric Society recommends room sharing for up to 6 months because that is when the risk of SIDS decreases. However, the decision is up to you and you have to do what works for you and your baby. In either location, you can be very successful in teaching your baby to sleep well.
Below is a list of items to help you create the ideal sleep environment for your little one.
Babies up to 9 months of age sleep better when elements of the womb are used as part of the sleep environment. Children newborn- 5 months of age are commonly put to sleep in a sleeper and a swaddle/swaddle sack. the tight wrap mimics the space restrictions from inside of the womb and it also helps reduce a baby from waking themselves with the Moro Reflex.
These are my top swaddle/swaddle sack recommendations for newborns:
Once children start rolling, it's time to transition out of the swaddle. This transition can be tricky but with time your baby will get used to sleeping arms free. Since blankets are not age appropriate the sleep sack is fantastic to transition to. Sleep sacks come in a variety of sizes, materials and way's they do-up. I prefer ones with zippers at the bottom ( you can unzip it for an instant cool down, and easy access for a diaper change,). and snaps at the shoulders.
These are my top swaddle transition sack
Here are my top Sleep Sack recommendations:
No matter what, my neighbour would cut his law at nap time. Or the guy with the big diesel truck would fire it up RIGHT at bed time. We also seem to get the nosiest hotel neighbours, or end up beside the ice machine. No matter where you are, blocking out exterior sounds is imperative at bedtime. For younger babies providing sound to help lull babe back to sleep when they are still not able to link their sleep cycles is also really helpful.
Often baby's outgrow the bassinet well before they are ready to transition into their own room. I always suggest a product like the Graco Pack N' Play- on the go. This model is their travel size so it's perfect to have in your bedroom. There is a bassinet level for the mattress and the lower level for once baby is bigger.
Creating the ideal sleep environment
Sleeping in complete darkness is imperative for good sleep, this is the case for all ages. want to learn more? Head over here to read all about it.
I have 2 products that I recommend for room darkening solutions.