Congratulations on your baby starting to roll!
As your baby reaches the exciting milestone of rolling, it’s natural to encounter some changes in their sleep patterns. While this development signifies growth and progression, it can also present challenges in ensuring your little one’s safety and comfort during sleep.
But while they are on the cusp of learning and getting stuck on their tummy, it can be a tricky time to navigate.
Here are six tips to help support your baby’s positive sleep during this transition:
Prioritise safety and simplicity: Once your baby is rolling in their bed, keeping the environment free of blankets and bumpers is important. SIDS recommends placing our babies on their backs to go to sleep and continue to do so until one year, but once your baby can roll from their back to their tummy and tummy to back independently, the risk of SIDS is thought to be decreased. Although it is recommended to continue placing them on their back to go to sleep if your baby rolls over on their own, it’s unnecessary to turn them back continually.
Introduce a sleeping bag: If you haven’t already, introduce a breathable, tog-rated sleeping bag so your baby can stay warm no matter where they are in their bed.
Practice Aim to practice rolling and offer tummy time often during the day. Encouraging your baby to spend time on their tummy during waking hours can help them develop the strength and coordination they need to roll over and sleep more comfortably on their back, side or tummy. The quicker your baby can master the art of rolling during the day and in BOTH directions, the easier and less disruptive their sleep will be.
Observe and learn from your baby: It’s important to note that babies will often squirm and move around during sleep, which is normal. If your baby rolls onto their tummy during sleep and is fussing or seems unsettled, maybe allow them to see if they can settle in their current position. If not, you can offer assistance by using a soothing voice soothing touch or pat before automatically rolling them back on their back. If they are getting more agitated and unable to get comfortable or roll back over to their back on their own, roll them over onto their back to continue sleeping.
Keep Routine: Routines provide babies with a sense of stability, security, and predictability in their daily lives. Babies thrive on routine because it helps them feel safe and comfortable in their environment, especially when they’re growing through developmental changes. A strong bath and bedtime routine helps babies wind down easier and settle better while learning new skills.
Be Patient: As your baby grows and changes, these changes may affect its sleep patterns too. Try to stay flexible and patient with the process, knowing that it’s normal for babies to have disruptions in their sleep as they develop new skills like rolling over
Ready to support your baby through every sleep transition? For personalised guidance and support in navigating these challenges, reach out and let me help you and your baby thrive through every stage of development with confidence and reassurance.