Transitioning From Bassinet to Crib

If your baby has been sleeping in your room in a bassinet, you
may have some concerns about moving her to her own room and her
crib. But, don't worry; you will probably both sleep better once
the transition is complete. Most babies are ready to move to the
crib at around six to eight weeks of age, or whenever he is
sleeping for longer periods during the night.

Be prepared that the crib might feel a bit large to the baby
who has been accustomed to a bassinet, but the transition will
be much easier when the baby is older than it would have been
with a newborn. If your baby seems bothered by the size of the
crib, try putting a pillow at his feet to give the illusion of
a smaller space. However, if your baby is turning over on his
own, or scooting about the crib, leave the pillow out, as it
can be dangerous. To make the transition easier, have the baby
take naps in the crib for a few weeks before you move him in
there for the whole night. Ideally, have baby take naps in his
crib from the very beginning, so that when you move him there
permanently, the surroundings will be familiar.

If you're worried that you won't hear the baby with him in
another room, use a monitor to alleviate your worries. But,
what you'll likely find is that you hear him when he really
needs you, but you don't wake up at every little gurgle, which
means better rest for both of you. Many first time moms are
very fearful of sleeping through their child's cries, but it is
rarely a real concern. In spite of the fact that you are likely
very sleep deprived, you will hear your baby.

Finally, it is common to worry about your child feeling
isolated. But, studies show that children are much more likely
to be comfortable sleeping alone in their room if they begin
this routine early in life. The two year old who has always
slept in Mom and Dad's room would definitely feel isolated when
put into his own room, the two month old will not. It is
probably a bigger adjustment for you than the baby.

Your baby is getting more independent, and that might be making
you a bit sad, which is perfectly normal. But, there are many
more days of this ahead, and each step toward independence is a
sign that you're giving your child the skills he needs to
develop.


About The Author: Sarah is a 41 year old wife and mother of two
boys and one girl. She spent many years as a manager in the
corporate world, and gave it up to be a stay at home mom. Go to
http://www.infantresources.com now and get her incredible baby
minicourse – absolutely free.

For more free-reprint articles by Sarah Veda please visit:
http://www.isnare.com/?s=author&a=Sarah+Veda