Hi there, fellow parents! I’m Jennie Clarke, a Certified Child Sleep Consultant with Smart Night Sleep. If you’re here, you might be looking for tips on how to wean your baby from the SNOO and transition them to a crib around the 4-month mark. You’re not alone—many parents face this exciting (and sometimes challenging) milestone! Let’s walk through some simple steps to make this process as smooth as possible.
Start with Baby's Arms
The first step in this transition is to get your baby used to having their arms free. If your little one has been swaddled with their arms secured, start by gently unswaddling one arm. This allows them to feel a bit more independent while still in the SNOO. After a few nights, once they seem comfortable, unswaddle the other arm. This gradual approach helps your baby adjust to sleeping with their arms free before moving on to the next step.
Switch to SNOO Weaning Mode
Once your baby is comfortable with having their arms out, it's time to activate the SNOO Weaning Mode. This mode reduces the intensity of the motion and white noise, allowing your little one to adjust to a calmer sleeping environment. This gradual decrease in stimulation will help prepare them for the quieter setting of the crib.
Move to the Crib
After successfully transitioning through the weaning mode, it's time for the big move to the crib. Ensure that the crib is a safe sleep environment, free of any loose bedding, blankets, bumpers or stuffed animals. Gradually ease your baby into this new space by starting to introduce the crib for naps and maintain a consistent bedtime routine. Consistency is key to helping your baby feel secure in their new sleeping environment.
Making Sleeping in the Crib Easier
Create a Safe Cozy Environment: Use a snug fitting crib sheet, a sleep sack to make the crib feel cozy and safe for your baby. Also ensure to follow safe sleep protocols.
White Noise Machine: If your baby is accustomed to the white noise of the SNOO, consider using a white noise machine in the crib to provide a familiar sleep-inducing sound. Remember that the AAP recommends that the white noise machine be 5-6 feet away from the crib and that the noise level should register no more than 50 decibels in the crib.
Consistent Bedtime Routine: Stick to a soothing bedtime routine to signal to your baby and their body that it's time to sleep. This could include a warm bath, gentle music, or a bedtime story.
Consider a Clock Based Approach: After about 4 months of age your child will get more restorative sleep if you follow a clock based approach to sleep rather than a wake-window approach.
Weaning your baby off the SNOO and transitioning to a crib is a big step, but with patience and a gentle approach, it can be a smooth process. Remember to celebrate the small victories along the way! If you have any questions or need personalized support, I’m here to help. Wishing you and your baby peaceful nights and happy sleep!
Wishing you rest,
Jennie Clarke
Certified Child Sleep Consultant
Smart Night Sleep
** Based out of Orlando, FL but works with families worldwide
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