One of the most common challenges new parents face is helping their newborn feel comfortable in the bassinet. Despite our best efforts, many babies cry, fuss, or refuse to settle when laid down. This can be frustrating and exhausting, but it’s important to remember that it’s entirely normal. Let’s dive into why newborns resist the bassinet and, most importantly, how to help your baby feel more at ease—and get some sleep!
Why Won’t My Newborn Sleep in Their Bassinet?
Newborns spend nine cozy months in the womb, experiencing warmth, closeness, and the constant sound of their mother’s heartbeat. Transitioning to a bassinet, which is still and quiet, can feel unsettling for them. Here’s why many babies resist being put down:
- The Womb Was Constantly Moving: Newborns are used to being rocked and swayed in the womb. When placed in a still bassinet, they may feel uneasy.
- Needing Closeness and Comfort: Babies crave the warmth and smell of their caregivers. For them, close contact feels safe, and separation can trigger fussiness.
- Startle Reflex: Newborns have a natural startle reflex that can wake them up if they’re placed on a hard, flat surface without enough soothing elements.
You Can’t Spoil Your Baby: Nurturing is Essential
First, let’s reassure you: you cannot spoil a newborn. Babies need consistent comforting and attention to develop secure attachments and feel safe in their new world. Meeting your baby’s needs will only benefit their development.
Using the 5 S’s for Soothing Sleep
One of the most effective methods for calming a newborn is Dr. Harvey Karp’s 5 S’s, found in his “Happiest Baby on the Block” method. These five techniques mimic the womb environment and can help transition your baby from wakefulness to sleep:
- Swaddle: Wrapping your baby snugly in a swaddle helps to reduce the startle reflex, keeping them calm and settled. Try the Ollie Swaddle for a secure, cozy fit that allows your baby to feel snug and safe. Check out the OllieSwaddle here.
- Side or Stomach Position: Holding your baby on their side or stomach (while they’re in your arms) can help reduce fussiness.
- Shush: White noise or shushing can mimic the whooshing sounds of the womb, which is comforting to babies. Consider using a white noise machine near the bassinet.
- Swing: Gentle rocking or swaying motions are incredibly soothing for a baby who’s used to movement.
- Suck: A pacifier can help calm a baby by engaging their natural sucking reflex.
Start with the First Nap of the Day
One of the best times to help your newborn get used to their bassinet is during the first nap of the day. This is often when your baby is the most relaxed, so it’s an ideal opportunity to practice putting them down drowsy but awake. Using the 5 S’s, soothe your baby until they are calm and sleepy, and then place them in the bassinet. This teaches your baby to connect their drowsiness with falling asleep in their sleep space rather than your arms.
If your baby wakes up before an hour has passed, use the 5 S’s again to settle them back to sleep. This practice of helping your baby stay in the bassinet for gradually longer periods is called the “crib hour.”
The Importance of the Crib Hour
The concept of the crib hour is helpful for developing healthy sleep habits early on. By aiming for your baby to stay in the crib or bassinet for one hour, you’re allowing them to practice self-soothing, which can lead to longer, more independent sleep over time. Even if they don’t sleep the entire hour, getting accustomed to their sleep space will help them feel comfortable and secure.
Other Tips for Helping Your Baby Settle in Their Bassinet
1. Use a Warm Touch: Placing a heating pad on low in the bassinet for a few minutes before laying your baby down can create a cozy environment. Just remember to remove it before putting your baby in for safety!
2. Swaddle for Security: A good swaddle can make all the difference. Swaddling reduces the startle reflex and helps your baby feel secure. The Ollie Swaddle is designed to be snug and breathable, allowing your baby to feel warm and protected without overheating.
3. Incorporate Magnesium Lotion: Magnesium is known to promote relaxation and sleep, so gently massaging your baby’s feet with 8 Sheep Magnesium Lotion can be a wonderful addition to the bedtime routine. Be sure to consult with your pediatrician for their approval before adding any new products to your baby’s routine.
4. Make the Bassinet Smell Familiar: Babies recognize their parents by scent. Consider placing a small cloth with your scent in the bassinet (safely out of reach) to provide an extra level of comfort for your baby.
5. Stick to a Soothing Routine: Consistency helps babies feel secure. Repeating a calming pre-sleep routine each night signals to your baby that it’s time to sleep, eventually making them more likely to settle in their bassinet.
Remember: You Are Not Alone
Helping your newborn adjust to the bassinet can take time, and that’s okay! Every baby is different, and it may take a few weeks for them to settle comfortably. By using the 5 S’s, starting with the first nap of the day, practicing the crib hour, and incorporating a few comforting techniques, you’re setting a foundation for your baby to feel safe, calm, and ready to sleep independently.
By approaching this transition with patience and a willingness to meet your baby’s needs, you’re helping them build a positive association with sleep—and that’s one of the best gifts you can give.
