Fixing Crib Sleeping
Your baby seems so small in the big crib. They look so alone when they are using a safe sleep environment (not like this loose blanket around baby, but I liked the image of the tiny, helpless looking baby here). It just seems to go against their biology to leave them to sleep alone on their back in a crib sometimes. And yet, that is the recommendation for babies for the safest possible sleep. And you have prepared this beautiful, strong, and safe place for them to dream--but why won't they sleep there???
So how do you navigate this? Do you have a baby that resists being laid down? Or a baby that wants to sleep attached to you all night long? Many families find a way to make this work for everyone, and doulas aren't here to make changes that you don't want to make. We know parents love their babies more than ANYONE and they are the ones who are worrying the most about their safety. Doulas don't come to judge your approach, but rather work within your goals to get you the best outcomes.
Some parents are struggling with trying to get baby into the crib. Some babies are struggling being on their backs, or being out of their parent's arms. And here is where we as doulas can help.
Doulas can help set up a safe sleep space--according to research, not just the recommendations of Alone, Back, Sleep, but the brain research, the attachment studies, and also by listening to you, the parent. Doulas can help your family find a space that works for baby's sleep as well as your own.
When you are too tired to work with a baby to get them to sleep in the crib, doulas can help. We can work on naps, or work overnight with baby to see what is going on, how to meet baby's needs, and how to help you get more sleep too.
It seems impossible, but often with a few changes, crib sleeping can happen. Even if you have an older baby, there are sleep coaches available to help baby enjoy the process of sleeping in the crib.
If it is not working and you haven't found your own solution, reach out for help. Doulas are here if you need them.