Fostering Good Sleep Patterns (Adapted from Bright Futures in Practice, Mental Health)

• Put your baby down for sleep while he is still awake so that he can practice calming himself. He may do things like suck his fingers, rock his body back and forth, or finger a blanket or a stuffed animal. A shirt you have worn close to your body for several days can be a helpful reminder of you in the crib.
• Stay in the room when your baby is first trying to fall asleep on her own. If your baby is not settling after 5 minutes, place your hand on her or sing to see if that helps. Try not to make eye contact, as this may keep your baby awake.
• Encourage both morning and afternoon naps for your infant under 12 months. Try to get some rest during your baby's nap.
• During night feedings, try not to play with your baby or talk to him too much. Keep the lights low or off. This will help your baby to have a successful feeding and get back to sleep.
• When your baby wakes at night and can't fall back to sleep after 3 minutes, let him know that you are there. If your child is crying, try to comfort him, but don't give an extra feeding if he doesn't normally need one at that time. Attention to babies is not spoiling; it helps to create a sense of security.
• If your baby seems fussy, try sticking to a regular sleep routine and try to let her sleep more.

Adapted from Jellinek, M. (2000). Bright Futures in Practice, Mental Health