Daytime Crib Naps: Good Or Bad For Newborns?

Establishing a daytime sleep routine for your baby is crucial for their well-being and your peace of mind. While it's common for newborns to take short naps, there are ways to help them sleep longer. Creating a consistent routine, a calm environment, and a comfortable sleep space are key factors in improving your baby's daytime sleep.

So, where should your newborn sleep during the day? Let's explore the options and strategies to get your little one snoozing soundly.

The benefits of a bassinet for newborns

A bassinet is a small bed for sleeping infants, often freestanding or attached to a frame or base. They are a great option for newborns and babies under six months, offering several advantages over cribs for new parents. Here are some benefits of using a bassinet for your newborn:

Portability and Compactness

Bassinets are small, lightweight, and portable, making them ideal for moving around your home or even travelling. They are perfect for keeping your baby close by, especially during the first six months as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Their compact size also makes them suitable for smaller spaces, fitting easily in your bedroom without taking up too much room.

Safety

Bassinets are designed with safety in mind and often feature firm mattresses and mesh, breathable sides, reducing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). They allow you to follow safe sleep practices, such as room-sharing with your baby and placing them on their back to sleep. Their smaller size also enables you to keep a watchful eye on your newborn and easily access them for frequent feedings.

Convenience

Bassinets are convenient for new mothers, especially those recovering from childbirth, as they limit the movement required for late-night feedings. They are also more affordable than cribs and can be purchased second-hand, though it's important to ensure they meet current safety regulations. Additionally, bassinets provide a familiar and cosy sleeping environment for newborns, which can help establish a consistent sleep routine.

Ease of Transition

Bassinets offer a smooth transition for newborns adjusting to sleeping independently. Their smaller, enclosed space can be more comforting and sleep-inducing for some babies, and they can be placed in a quiet area to minimise distractions. As your baby grows and becomes more mobile, you can gradually transition them to a crib or toddler bed.

Cribs as a long-term solution

Cribs are a great option for your baby's daytime naps. They are designed with rigorous safety standards in mind and provide a secure and independent sleep space for your little one. Many cribs also transition into toddler beds, making them a long-term investment. Here are some reasons why cribs are an excellent choice:

• Safety: Cribs are manufactured with strict safety standards, including properly spaced bars and guidelines for suggested mattress firmness. This ensures your baby's safety during sleep.
• Independence: Cribs offer a space for your baby to nap on their own and adjust to sleeping independently. This helps them get used to sleeping without constant supervision.
• Longevity: Many cribs can be converted into toddler beds, making them a cost-effective and long-lasting option. This saves you from having to purchase new beds as your child grows.
• Familiarity: Using a crib for both daytime and nighttime sleep provides consistency for your baby. This helps establish a routine and signals to your baby that it's time to sleep.
• Portability: Some cribs are designed to be portable and travel-friendly. This allows you to create a familiar and safe sleep environment for your baby even when you're away from home.
• Monitoring: With the help of modern technology, such as data-driven baby monitors, you can observe your baby's sleep patterns remotely. This gives you peace of mind and allows you to ensure their safety without constant physical presence.
• Playtime in the crib: Allow your baby to have some non-sleep play periods in the crib. This helps them view the crib as a happy and secure space, making the adjustment easier.
• Consistent bedtime routine: Stick to a consistent bedtime routine, whether your baby is sleeping in a bassinet or a crib. This helps cue your baby that it's time to wind down and sleep, regardless of the sleep environment.
• Start with "easy" sleep times: When transitioning to the crib, begin with the easiest sleep periods, such as the first nap of the day or bedtime. Babies are usually more receptive to sleep during these times, making the adjustment smoother.
• Simulate coziness: If you're concerned about the larger space of a crib, place your baby at one end so they feel enclosed on three sides. This can be comforting and help them feel more secure.
• Weaning feature on motion bassinets: If you're using a self-moving bassinet, utilize the weaning function to gradually reduce the motion. This helps your baby adjust to falling asleep without movement and promotes self-soothing.

Remember, every baby is unique, and you may need to try out different options to find what works best for your little one. Consistency, patience, and a calm routine will go a long way in helping your baby adjust to their new sleep environment.

How to transition from bassinet to crib

So, you're thinking about transitioning your baby from a bassinet to a crib? This can be a challenging time for parents, but it's important to remember that it doesn't have to be scary. Most families are able to make this shift pretty smoothly, and there are plenty of tips and tricks to help you along the way. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to transition your baby from a bassinet to a crib:

Step 1: Know When to Transition

It's important to start transitioning your baby to a crib when they are developmentally ready. Most babies transition away from the bassinet by 4-6 months of age due to safety and comfort factors. You'll want to stop using the bassinet once your baby starts to roll, sit up, or get into a crawling position. Additionally, check the weight and height recommendations from the bassinet manufacturer, as your baby may have outgrown the bassinet.

Step 2: Introduce the Crib

Even if you plan to use the bassinet for most sleep times, you can still give your baby the opportunity to get used to the crib. Start by offering non-sleep play periods in the crib with the lights on and some fun music playing. This will help your baby view the crib as a happy and secure place.

Step 3: Start with One Sleep Period in the Crib

Once your baby is comfortable with the crib, you can start transitioning their sleep periods to the new bed. Begin with one sleep period per day in the crib, such as the first nap or bedtime, as these are usually the easiest times for babies to fall asleep. After a few days, you can move on to transitioning another sleep period to the crib, and so on, until they are sleeping in the crib all the time.

Step 4: Maintain a Consistent Bedtime Routine

A consistent bedtime routine is important to help cue your baby that it's time to wind down and sleep. This can include activities such as a bath, book, and snuggles before sleep. Maintaining this routine, even during the transition to the crib, will help your baby know what to expect and make the process smoother.

Step 5: Recreate a Familiar Sleep Environment

To help ease the transition, try to recreate a similar sleep environment in the crib as your baby had in the bassinet. This includes using a firm, flat mattress in a cool, dark room with the sound of a humming machine. This familiarity will help your baby feel more comfortable in their new sleeping space.

Step 6: Be Patient and Persistent

Transitioning to a new sleeping space may take some time for your baby to adjust to. Don't be discouraged if they seem uncomfortable at first or if their sleep patterns become less predictable. With consistency and patience, your baby will eventually improve their sleep in the crib.

Remember, every baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. It's important to be flexible and adapt the transition process to your baby's needs. With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to helping your little one adjust to their new sleeping space in no time!

Creating a daytime sleep environment

Consistency is Key:

Try to establish a predictable daytime sleep routine for your baby. This will help program their internal body clock to expect naps at certain times, leading to fewer cranky moods and more restful sleep.

Lighting:

Contrary to popular belief, a pitch-black room is not necessary for daytime naps. A dimly lit room with soft lighting can create a soothing atmosphere. Avoid harsh or glaring light in your baby's sleep area, but don't be afraid to let in some natural daylight.

Sound:

A bit of ambient noise can be beneficial. You can use a white noise machine or play gentle lullabies to drown out any sudden, jarring sounds. This will help your baby learn to sleep through the normal hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Comfort:

Make sure your baby's sleep area is as comfortable as possible. Use soft bedding, maintain a comfortable temperature, and consider offering a favourite cuddly toy or pacifier. Remember to prioritise safety by avoiding loose blankets or pillows in the crib.

Location:

While a crib is an excellent option for daytime naps, you can also use a bassinet or play yard, depending on your baby's needs and your preferences. The key is to ensure that the sleep space is safe and comfortable. If using a bassinet, ensure it has a firm, flat mattress, and avoid adding pillows or blankets that could pose a suffocation hazard. Play yards are foldable and portable, and equipped with a firm mattress and breathable mesh sides, making them ideal for travel or family outings.

Routine:

Establish a naptime routine that mirrors your bedtime routine. This might include soft music, singing, or reading a book. A consistent routine will help cue your baby that it's time to wind down and sleep, whether it's naptime or bedtime.

Remember, every baby is unique, and you may need to experiment to find what works best for your little one. Be patient and gentle with yourself and your baby as you navigate these new sleep territories!

Tips for getting baby to nap

The Crib

The crib is a great option for your baby's daytime naps. It provides a safe, secure, and familiar environment for your baby to sleep in. Consistency is key, so having your baby nap in the same place they sleep at night can help establish a routine and signal to your baby that it's time to nap. Make sure the crib adheres to safety standards and is free from loose bedding and toys.

The Bassinet

Bassinets are small, portable cribs that are designed for newborns and babies under six months. They are a safe option for napping, as they have a firm mattress and mesh, breathable sides, which help reduce the risk of SIDS. They also allow you to keep your baby close by, which is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) for the first six months of a baby's life.

The Playard

A playard is a versatile and travel-friendly option for napping. It has a sturdy frame and mesh sides, providing a safe and familiar environment for your baby to nap in. Playards are easy to set up and can be used almost anywhere, making them a convenient option when you're on the go.

Establishing a Routine

Creating a consistent daytime sleep routine can help program your baby's internal body clock and establish a sense of predictability. Try to nap your baby at the same time each day, and use simple cues to signal that it's naptime, such as closing the blinds, feeding your baby, or using white noise.

The Right Environment

Make sure your baby's napping environment is comfortable and free from distractions. Adjust the temperature to between 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit, dim the lights, and reduce outside noise. A soft light and some ambient noise can be beneficial, as it helps your baby learn to sleep through the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Just make sure it's not too harsh or jarring.

Wind-Down Time

Before naptime, incorporate some quiet playtime or storytime into your baby's routine. Avoid any exciting activities that may overexcite your baby, such as tickling or noisy toys. Instead, opt for calming activities that will help your baby wind down and prepare for sleep.

Frequently asked questions