Moms on Call's Silent Night Sleep Tips

Here we will break down our favorite tips, from swaddling to the temperature in the baby's room and everything in between!

# 1, Tight Swaddle

• If you are looking for a sleep miracle, this is it!
  • When done correctly, the Moms On Call Swaddle Technique will calm and soothe a fussy baby within minutes.
  • The Moms On Call Swaddle Blanket was specifically designed with flannel fabric to provide exactly the right amount of elasticity.
• Swaddling is recommended for babies under 12 weeks and 12 lbs.
  • For babies 3 months and up, check out the Moms on Call sleep guidelines in our Books and Online Courses.

# 2, White Noise

• White Noise is reminiscent of the noise babies hear inside the womb.
  • Our favorite is the Lectrofan Classic.
  • This should be kept on all night long, turned up loud enough for you to hear on the other side of the door, and should be kept 12-24 inches from the head of the crib.
  • Read our White Noise Q&A for more!

# 3, Routine & Consistency

• Babies learn by routine and association.
  • By implementing the principles above consistently, you are helping your baby learn when to sleep. They will begin to associate the swaddle and sound machine with sleep time.
• Additionally, set nap times and a predictable bedtime routine are also important in establishing healthy sleep habits.
  • Getting proper rest is not only necessary for your baby’s development but also beneficial for the entire family…Parents need rest too!

# 4, Safe Sleep Environment

• We suggest babies sleep in the crib or a bassinet.
  • The crib should be less than 5 years old and have a new mattress, a mattress cover, and a tight-fitted crib sheet. (use MOMSONCALL40 for 40% off)
    • We recommend a dual-firmness crib mattress like the Sleep & Grow Crib Mattress. It features extra-firm support that infants need on one side and less firmness on the other side to provide the comfort that toddlers prefer so that it will grow with your baby and their nursery!
  • There should not be any pillows, stuffed animals, loose blankets, or interactive toys (including mobiles) in or near the crib. The crib should be free of all stimulation.
  • Side note: That cute mobile can be hung over the dresser or the changing table!
• You can find more information on how to create the ideal sleep environment here.

# 5, Lighting and Room Temperature

• At night, the room should be pitch black.
  • Blackout shades are wonderful for this.
• During naptime, window blinds can be left open, or a lamp can be left on.
  • Babies' bodies naturally regulate light. They will associate night with darkness and naptime with daylight.
• Babies sleep best in cooler temps! The room should be kept at cool 68-72 degrees.

# 6, Practice the Pause

• With Moms On Call, we give you specific guidelines for what to do when your little one wakes early from a nap or in the middle of the night, according to age.
• “Practice the Pause” simply means to wait just a few minutes before reacting. Whether in the middle of a nap sleep cycle or when they wake in the middle of the night, just wait. By waiting a few minutes it will give them the opportunity to wake, fuss, and go back to sleep or they will let us know they are ready to eat.
• But it doesn’t stop there….
  • Wait a few minutes before responding to the spilled milk
  • Wait a few minutes before intervening in sibling “discussions”
  • Wait a few minutes to decide if you really should post that comment
• By waiting just a few minutes, you may see a clearer way to respond.
  • So tonight, pause, take a deep breath, and choose how to respond.

# 7, Tummy Time Before Bed

• With putting baby to sleep on their backs being the center of attention, we often forget the importance of playtime on their tummies.
• So, what is tummy time, why is it important, and when should we be doing it? What time of day is best for tummy time?
  • Whenever possible! Try and allow your baby to have time on their tummy during each awake period. A few other suggested times:
    • About 10 minutes after feeding
    • 5-10 minutes before feeding
    • 5-10 minutes before bathing.
• What if my baby seems unhappy during tummy time?
  • Let’s face it- even we sometimes feel like crying when we’re exercising. (Ha!)
  • There may be times that baby doesn’t like it, and that is okay! Remember, it is a great way for babies to really stretch their muscles, even if they’re fussy.
  • Pull out some colorful crinkle toys and place them just out of the baby’s reach.
  • Lay down with the baby and talk or read to them and remember this is great bonding time for you and the baby.