How can I encourage my baby to take a nap? Establish a routine A routine helps your baby to know…

How can I encourage my baby to take a nap?

Establish a routine

A routine helps your baby to know what to expect. It will also help you to work out at what time of the day your child is usually tired,hungry, or needs to play. Rather than being too rigid or watching the clock, just have some things happen at roughly the same time every day.

Let your baby doze off in the same place

In general, babies nap best where they sleep at night. Your baby should ideally nap in the same place each time, so he will associate naps with one special place.

Your baby can nap in the car or baby carrier if you're out and about, but try to give him the opportunity to sleep in the same place most of the time. If your baby goes to nursery or babysitter, make sure he naps in the same place on the days that he is at home.

Have quiet time together

Just as you would do before bedtime, enjoy some peaceful time with your baby before he naps. Read a book, or sing a lullaby to signal nap-time.

Put your baby down to sleep when he's tired

Don't wait too long to put your baby down for a nap. You'll usually have a window of opportunity when your baby will fall asleep easily and quickly.

If you wait too long, your baby will be too tired, and have a harder time falling asleep. Learn how to read your baby's signals. He may rub his eyes, or fuss a lot, or just stare into space. The moment your baby tells you he's tired, put him down for some sleep.

Encourage your baby to fall asleep on his own

By about three months your baby should begin learning how to soothe himself to sleep. This may be by sucking his thumb, cuddling a blanket or favourite toy, or simply drifting off into sleep when he feels tired.

Allow your baby the chance to settle himself, instead of rocking or feeding him to sleep. Once your baby learns to rely on himself, he may nap for longer stretches.

This will prepare him for plenty of good sleep in the months and years to come.

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