How do I put a baby to sleep who is agitated but just won't fall asleep?
How do I put a baby to sleep who is agitated but just won't fall asleep?
user
Most children will fall asleep in a dark room when it’s quiet. Sometimes a very small child will need to be held or rocked in order to fall asleep, but there’s usually some way to settle the baby.
assistant
Okay, so that didn't work. What else can I do?
user
Oh, yes, I should have mentioned that rocking and cuddling are not recommended for infants under three months, as it is likely to stimulate them and wake them up again.  Perhaps it would help to try nursing, or rubbing your baby’s back gently.  Or even just holding your baby close to your body and swaying side to side a little, that is also usually comforting.
assistant
Okay, so the key is comforting the baby.
user
Yes, you’re right.  What you want to do is provide your baby with the feeling of closeness and comfort.  By “feeling” I mean just physical contact, like holding your baby close to your body.
assistant
Well, I think he finally fell asleep.
user