Q: How should I dress my baby for sleep?
A: Babies should be dressed in something warm enough to protect them without a blanket. Not only are blankets not recommended in cribs with babies younger than 12 months, they are usually so active during sleep that they won’t keep a blanket on anyway. A sleep sack or a swaddle blanket are good options though.
Q: How can I tell that my baby might be getting closer to being ready to learn how to self-soothe?
A: The habits that have always worked (swinging, rocking, feeding etc.) are taking longer and longer to get your child to sleep. Your baby arches his back or struggles with you as you try to get him to sleep. Your presence stimulates him instead of making him sleepier.
Shana del Castillo is a Gentle Sleep Coach, who provides parent coaching and consulting services to families who are seeking assistance and support with pediatric sleep and sleep related issues. Learn more about Shana here.