Developing a sleep technique

The sleep needs constantly change during childhood. Each child will have different sleep patterns.

It is key to develop a sleep routine and technique that works for both you and your baby.

Some babies will sleep shorter periods than others.

Some babies will sleep longer and ‘through the night’ before others.

Each baby has differing sleep needs and sleep patterns.

This will influence your development of a seep routine.

There are many sleep techniques that have been proven to be successful.

Ultimately it comes down to what works best with you and your baby.

Recognizing your baby’s tired cues is paramount. Although have consistency in the method for your baby and the association with sleep for them is also key.

If you find are trying to establish a sleep routine that doesn’t work for you or that you are not completely comfortable with it will inevitably take longer and be more stressful for you both as your baby will pick up on this.

Not all babies will go to sleep themselves when placed. Some babies may require some help in getting to sleep.

This may vary from child to child and depending on their age.

Generally, as a baby grows and develops, as they get older they are more able to sleep without assistance.

Having said that there are some sleep techniques that are proven to be

• Patting
• Rocking
• Singing/Soft music playing
• Stoking
• Walking them in a sling

These repetitions signal relaxation and sleep.

Keep trying techniques until you find one that works for you. By this we don’t mean a different one each day as this will not eventuate into a technique you will know works for you.

You may have to try a few different techniques until you find the that works best for you and your baby. You should ideally give a technique a try for at least a week to 10 days.