As a children's sleep coach, I understand the struggles that exhausted parents face when it comes to establishing healthy sleep habits for their little ones. One common dilemma many parents encounter is knowing when and how to take away the pacifier. While the pacifier can be a comforting tool for infants, there comes a time when it's essential to help your baby wean off it. In this blog post, we'll explore the signs that indicate it's time to say goodbye to the paci (binky, soother, etc) and offer some practical tips for a smooth transition.
If you have a baby under 6 months of age, pacifiers are great tools and have been shown to help reduce Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. How to Know When to Ditch the Binky 1. Age and Teeth Development: Pediatric dentists recommend discontinuing pacifier use by the age of 2 to avoid potential dental issues. If your child's teeth are starting to come in, it's a good indicator that it might be time to start the weaning process. 2. Speech Development: Long-term pacifier use can impact speech development in children. If you notice your child is having difficulty articulating certain sounds or forming words, it may be linked to pacifier use. Weaning off the pacifier can positively contribute to language development. 3. Dependency: If your child relies on the pacifier to fall asleep or soothe themselves throughout the day, it might be a sign of dependency. Weaning can help promote self-soothing skills, fostering independence and longer nights of sleep without having to pop it back in multiple times throughout the night. Tips for a Smooth Transition 1. Gradual Reduction or Cold Turkey: Consider a gradual approach by limiting pacifier use to specific times, such as naps and bedtime. Over time, decrease its presence until it's eventually phased out. Cold turkey, which works much faster is just that. Stop all pacifier use and get rid of them! 2. Introduce Comfort Alternatives: Help your child find comfort in other ways. Provide a special blanket or stuffed animal (over 12 months of age) that can become a new source of comfort during sleep or times of stress. 3. Create a Fun Ritual: Turning the weaning process into a positive experience can make it more enjoyable for your child. Create a fun "goodbye pacifier" ritual, perhaps involving a special ceremony or letting them choose a replacement comfort item. 4. Consistency is Key: Consistency is crucial during the weaning process. Ensure that all caregivers are on the same page and follow the established plan to avoid confusion for the child. Conclusion Weaning your baby off the pacifier is a significant milestone that can contribute to their overall well-being and development. By recognizing the signs that it's time to take away the pacifier and implementing these practical tips for a smooth transition, you can help your child sleep more soundly and through the night. Remember, patience, comfort and consistency are key as you navigate through this change of your child’s life. If you need help pinpointing why your baby or child isn’t sleeping, set up a free call with us and we’ll help! Discover how comfort objects can help children sleep better after a move with our essential guide for parents. The psychological impact of relocation on children often stems from uprooting their known environment. A house isn’t just a structure to them; it is where they feel safe. Children form deep attachments to familiar surroundings, whether it is their room, a favorite tree in the yard, or a play area. These spots provide stability and security in their lives. Taking them away from these places can disrupt their emotional well-being. Routines offer predictability in an otherwise chaotic world for children. Changes in daily schedules can make children feel lost and out of control. In such times, comfort objects can help children sleep better after a move, acting as a consistent piece in their reshuffled life and giving them something familiar to hold onto. What Are Comfort Objects? Comfort objects, often termed "transitional objects" in psychological circles, provide emotional support to children, especially during change or stress. These items vary widely: soft toys, blankets, or even a piece of cloth. Each holds special significance to the child it belongs to. The reason? Children, in their early stages of development, seek stability. Comfort objects act as anchors, providing a sense of familiarity in unfamiliar situations. It's not a new trend. Historically, children from various cultures across the globe have found solace in these objects. Whether it's a doll made of rags or a wooden toy, these items have been a constant presence in children's lives for centuries. Their universality suggests that the need for comfort and security is inherent in humans from a young age, making these objects an essential part of childhood. The Magical Soothing Power of Comfort Objects For a young child, the world can sometimes feel vast and unpredictable. In these moments, comfort objects act like silent guardians, offering a touch of consistency in their fluctuating environment. They grant children a sense of security, helping them sleep at night. From a developmental perspective, these objects are more than just toys. Children learn about trust, attachment, and self-soothing during crucial stages of growth. Comfort objects assist in this learning process, teaching kids how to cope with emotions and feelings of uncertainty. Consider these items as bridges. As kids navigate the wide gap between dependence on parents and self-reliance, comfort objects act as supportive transitional tools. They give children the confidence to explore the world around them while knowing they have a trusted companion by their side. Comfort Objects Can Help Children Sleep Better After a Move: The Science Behind It Scientifically, comfort objects have a direct connection to the brain's ability to manage stress. During challenging times, the brain releases cortisol, a stress hormone. Consistent exposure to this hormone, according to sleep experts, especially in children, can disrupt sleep patterns, making rest elusive. However, comfort objects can counteract this effect. They activate the brain's oxytocin release - often termed the "love" or "comfort" hormone. Oxytocin can lower cortisol levels, promoting feelings of safety and relaxation. The natural circadian rhythm reasserts itself, improving sleep quality and duration. Multiple studies reinforce these findings. A 2019 study published in the Child Development Journal found that children who had access to their comfort objects during times of change, like moving, exhibited steadier sleep patterns. Research from the Pediatric Sleep Research Institute highlighted that children with comfort objects fell asleep faster post-relocation, reducing nighttime awakenings. In essence, for many children, comfort objects are a bridge to better sleep. Selecting the Perfect Comfort Object for Your Child Choosing the fitting comfort object for your child is essential, especially considering that comfort objects can help children sleep better after a move. Find what resonates with your child's needs and preferences to make his bedroom sleep-friendly. Often, the best way to find the perfect item is to involve your child in the selection process. Their attachment and fondness for the object will be stronger if they have a say in the choice. Observe your child's tendencies: do they cuddle a particular teddy more often or wrap themselves in a specific blanket? These cues can guide you toward the best pick. However, while emotional connection is critical, safety should always come first. Avoid objects with small detachable parts that pose a choking hazard for younger children. Similarly, it's wise to select items made of breathable materials for bedtime to prevent suffocation risks. Caring for and Maintaining Comfort Objects
Maintaining the cleanliness and integrity of comfort objects is essential. Given that these items often see daily use, proper cleaning becomes vital. Check care labels on toys for specific instructions. Some may be machine washable, while others may require gentle hand washing. Backup comfort objects offer peace of mind. If a child's favorite item gets lost or damaged, having an identical replacement ready can mitigate distress. If you choose to have duplicates, a storage unit is an ideal place for safekeeping, especially in crowded areas like Washington, DC, where extra space can be at a premium. Renting storage in Washington, DC, will save space for beloved items and guarantee they remain in good condition when needed. And as kids grow, the emotional significance of precious objects may diminish, but their sentimental value remains. Storing them as keepsakes is a heartwarming way to preserve memories. Introducing Comfort Objects Before the Move When introducing comfort objects, choosing the right timing is vital. Instead of springing it on them just days before the move, give it a few weeks. This window allows your child to form an attachment, making the object truly comforting during the relocation. Next, discuss the comfort object's purpose with your child, emphasizing that it's a special item meant to provide solace and familiarity. Make it an event: maybe a day out to choose it or a quiet evening discussion about its significance. Lastly, use this new comfort object to establish a calming bedtime routine and sleeping habits. It can include reading a story with the stuffed animal, tucking in the blanket, or simply chatting about the day. The idea is to associate the comfort object with positive, soothing experiences. So, by the time you move, your child will have an established source of comfort to help them through the transition. Tips for Washington Parents: Local Shops to Find Comfort Objects Washington is home to various stores that offer a selection of comfort objects perfect for children. One of the most popular destinations is Little Dreamers, a boutique shop specializing in handcrafted toys and soft blankets. Another favorite among parents is Capital Comforts, known for its plush animals and cuddly items suitable for kids of all ages. Apart from established stores, the city is rich with talented local artisans crafting unique comfort items. Places like the DC Crafts Market or Washington Artisans' Alley host a variety of stalls where handmade treasures await. Here, one can find not just mass-produced items but pieces made with love, care, and creativity. For families relocating to Washington, the community offers exceptional support. Local parent groups often share resources and recommendations, making settling down easier. They also provide insights into neighborhood shops and hidden gems where you might find the perfect comfort object for your child. Wrapping Up The significance of comfort objects in a child's life is evident, especially during significant changes like relocation. These cherished items often provide stability, helping young ones adjust and feel secure in new surroundings. Comfort objects can help children sleep better after a move, reducing nighttime anxieties. It's vital for parents to understand the role these items play, from selection to maintenance and eventually transitioning away from them. As children evolve, grow, and adapt, so do their needs. Nurturing their growth while ensuring they have the support they need is the beautiful balance of parenting. Photos via: Pexels Pexels Pexels Pexels Design a sleep-friendly bedroom in your new home with these expert tips for optimal design and enhance your sleep quality. Moving into a new home in Virginia is an exciting venture, full of opportunities to infuse your personal style and preferences into your living space. One of the most crucial areas to focus on is the bedroom, where you rest and recharge after a long day. A well-designed, sleep-friendly bedroom can significantly affect the quality of your sleep and overall well-being. Join us as we explore practical and effective ways to design a sleep-friendly bedroom and craft a serene sleep oasis that promotes relaxation and restfulness.
Where to Begin You may have been overwhelmed by the very process of relocating, even to begin your design adventure. Or if you have had proper help choosing the right local moving company and hiring local movers in Virginia, you are ready to roll up your sleeves and dive in. Unlike the moving part of the journey, designing areas of your new home will be a fun and rewarding experience for the whole family. If, however, you don’t have a penchant for such endeavors—hire someone who does! Whichever path you take, ensure you infuse your style into your sleep-friendly bedroom so you can enjoy it for years to come. Choosing Calming Colors and Natural Elements The colors you choose for your bedroom can significantly impact your sleep quality. Opt for soft, muted tones such as soothing blues, gentle greens, or tranquil grays. These colors have been shown to have a calming effect on the mind, helping you unwind after a busy day. Avoid bold and vibrant colors that might stimulate your senses and hinder your ability to relax. Bringing elements of nature into your bedroom design can have a calming effect. Consider adding indoor plants known for their air-purifying properties, such as aloe vera or lavender. Natural materials like wooden furniture or stone accents can also contribute to a soothing and cozy atmosphere. Investing in a Quality Mattress and Pillows Designing a sleep-friendly bedroom goes beyond aesthetics. Your choice of mattress and pillows is pivotal in your sleep comfort. Choose a mattress that provides adequate support for your body and aligns your spine. Similarly, opt for pillows that cater to your preferred sleeping position to prevent neck and back discomfort. Remember that everyone's body is unique, so take the time to test different mattress firmness levels and pillow thicknesses to find the perfect combination that suits you. Investing in high-quality bedding essentials enhances your physical comfort and contributes to a sense of luxury and relaxation in your sleep sanctuary. Controlling Natural and Artificial Light Lighting has a significant impact on your body's internal clock, also known as the circadian rhythm. Consider installing blackout curtains to block out external light sources that might disrupt your sleep when designing your bedroom. Additionally, incorporate adjustable lighting options to create a soothing ambiance in the evening, mimicking the gradual transition from daylight to darkness. Declutter for Serenity A cluttered environment can contribute to a cluttered mind, making it challenging to unwind and fall asleep. Keep your bedroom organized and clutter-free by incorporating ample storage solutions. Design a sleep-friendly bedroom by placing items out of sight and embracing a minimalist approach to decor. A clutter-free space not only promotes physical relaxation but also nurtures mental clarity. When your bedroom is organized and free of unnecessary items, your mind can better disengage from the chaos of the day. The minimalist decor exudes a serene ambiance and encourages a sense of calm within. Consider multifunctional furniture that combines storage with style, such as a bed with built-in drawers or a sleek nightstand with compartments. By consciously curating your surroundings, you provide yourself with a tranquil retreat where you can escape the demands of the world and embrace the peacefulness necessary for a good night's sleep. Creating a Technology-Free Zone It's tempting to use electronic devices before bedtime in today's digital age. However, the blue light emitted by screens can interfere with your body's production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. Design a sleep-friendly bedroom by keeping technology out of the sleeping area. Instead, create a dedicated charging station outside the bedroom to discourage late-night screen time. Prioritizing Comfortable Bedding Your choice of bedding can make a significant difference in your sleep quality. Opt for soft, breathable, and high-quality sheets and blankets. Natural materials like cotton and linen are excellent options. Ensure that your bedding provides the right level of warmth for your preferences to promote uninterrupted sleep. Consider investing in a comfortable and supportive mattress to complement your bedding ensemble. A mattress that suits your sleeping style and body type can alleviate pressure points and contribute to a more restful slumber. Remember, the combination of the right mattress and bedding can create a cocoon of comfort that embraces you as you drift off into dreamland. Soundproofing for Tranquility Noise pollution can disturb your sleep and leave you feeling fatigued the next day. To design a sleep-friendly bedroom, consider soundproofing strategies such as using heavy curtains, installing a white noise machine, or placing bookshelves against walls that face noisy areas. Personalizing Your Sleep Space Make your bedroom truly yours by incorporating personal touches that bring you joy and comfort. Display artwork that soothes your senses add plush rugs that tickle your toes, or hang curtains that resonate with your style. Personalization can contribute to a stronger emotional connection with your sleep space. Consider creating a cozy reading nook in a corner, complete with a comfortable chair and a soft blanket, where you can unwind before bedtime. A dedicated space for relaxation and leisure activities within your sleep-friendly bedroom adds an extra layer of comfort and tranquility to the overall ambiance. This personalized haven will enhance your sleep quality and provide a sanctuary where you can escape the stresses of the day. Successfully Design a Sleep-Friendly Bedroom in Your New Home In conclusion, the design of your bedroom can significantly impact your sleep quality and overall well-being. You can create a sleep-friendly bedroom that becomes your haven of relaxation by carefully considering aspects such as color choices, lighting, bedding, and personalization. Remember that designing a sleep-friendly bedroom is an ongoing process; periodically assess and adjust your space to ensure it continues to meet your evolving needs. Your new home's bedroom has the potential to become the ultimate sanctuary for rest, contributing to a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle. Sweet dreams and restful nights await after you design a sleep-friendly bedroom in your new home. Photo via Pexels As technology continues to progress, there is always some kind of new flashy new baby gear that claims to make your baby sleep. Registries grow and become more complicated. The choices are never ending! New parents find themselves torn over which items to buy that will give them the *most* success in the newborn and baby years. With all of the new, advanced sleep options for baby, it’s important to think long-term before rushing to purchase the newest baby gear. Have you heard of the Snoo bassinet? The Snoo is a bassinet made by the company Happiest Baby that comes equipped with sound sensors, wifi, white noise speakers and a robotic motor that rocks your baby to sleep if your baby makes noise. Sounds incredibly fancy, right? All of that sleepy time magic comes with the price tag of $1,600. You also have the option now to rent a snoo near you at a cost of $500 per month! Parents frequently ask me my opinion of the Snoo. I’ve worked with many clients that started out working with me when their baby was in the Snoo and we successfully transitioned to a crib. All the babies are sleeping well…now. Here are a few things you should consider before jumping in to buy or rent a Snoo. How does the Snoo work? The Snoo is an all-in-one bassinet and baby soother. It gives you the smaller space required to have your newborn sleep in your room without taking up much space, has white noise and rocks your baby to sleep. So, does it work…in short…yes! But only for a while. Online reviews rave about how well the Snoo rocks your baby back to sleep. Having the bassinet do all the work for you sounds amazing! The added sound machine and the included swaddle are both accessories of the Snoo, eliminating the need to get these separately. The biggest downside to the Snoo is the creation of a dependency on motion to get your child to sleep. When baby outgrows it or reaches the recommended age limit, you’ll need to transition to a full sized crib, mini-crib or portable crib and you’ll need to work on getting baby to sleep without motion or rocking. What’s the cost of getting a newborn to sleep? This first thing that jumps out at me when considering the Snoo is the price tag. $1,600 for a bassinet?! However, as a sleep consultant, I truly believe that good sleep is priceless! Consider this; a bassinet is not forever, it’s a good tool to use for a few months of life. While a crib can be used for several years, a bassinet is typically used for about 6 months (and that’s if baby doesn’t outgrow it sooner!). All things considered, your baby will be using this bassinet for roughly 180 days. And once baby outgrows the Snoo, you’ll still need a full sized crib! For some, it’s a great tool, for others they might want to get more bang for their buck. Will I still have to sleep train if I use the Snoo? If you think of falling asleep like a skill that we have to learn, then yes, you will have to eventually teach baby to fall asleep without the motion of the Snoo. For instance, if a baby is constantly being rocked to sleep by a bassinet, they form a sleep habit. Once it comes time to transition from the Snoo to the crib, then this habit will need to be changed in order to teach baby how to fall asleep without the motion. The transition may prove to be harder than it would be with a standard bassinet or portable cri,b and parents should consider if this challenge is worth it. For some babies, the change from the Snoo to a crib can be hard and will require some prior planning to manage the transition. Weaning and transitioning from the Snoo can be done cold turkey but parents should consider gentler methods to do it as well. So what should you do? No matter what bassinet you use, you and your baby CAN achieve good sleep. By doing a bit of research and weighing out the options, you and your partner can make the right decision for your family. What about you? Have you ever used a Snoo? What are your honest reviews? I would love to hear your thoughts! And if you’re not sure how to transition out of the Snoo, please reach out. Happy sleeping! New parents are oftentimes surprised to learn that hitting certain development milestones in their baby’s life will interfere with their sleep habits. One of these first development milestones happens at around four months of age. Commonly referred to as the four month sleep regression, it’s a huge mental and physical growth spurt, and it is no joke! Babies’ sleep patterns shift during this time and you will find that they wake often during the night and have a hard time going back to sleep. From the moment they are born, babies' brains are constantly evolving and adapting to the new environment. During this time, your baby may be learning new skills such as rolling over or sitting up. This intense time of physical effort and growth can interrupt even the best sleeper’s habits. If your awesome sleeper of a newborn all of a sudden starts waking at all hours, and it’s left you thinking “what in the world is going on?” then you may have entered the four month sleep regression. Newborns typically sleep around 16-18 hours a day, but by the age of 3 to 4 months, babies begin sleeping a little less at around 15-16 hours per day. This adjustment can be tricky for baby to navigate and can also result in additional night time wakings. So what can you do? First, it’s important to watch Baby to understand what is going on. Is this a sleep regression caused by developmental milestones, or might there be something else at play such as an illness? Second, since this is an intense period of learning new skills, it’s a good idea to allow your baby uninterrupted time to practice these new skills during the day. It can be easy to want to step in when they are struggling with things like rolling over or grasping an object, but allowing them space to attempt a new skill, will also help them to exert effort and become more tired when it comes time to nap or sleep. Third, make sure Baby is taking in full feeds during the day and right before bedtime. Any period of brain development and growth requires more caloric intake for babies. Ensuring they are full and satisfied will keep hungry tummies from waking baby when they should be resting. It’s ok to offer a quick snack feed about 20-30 minutes before you get Baby ready for a nap to top him/her off. Lastly, as I always recommend, stick to your routine and keep Baby’s room dark. Having a consistent and predictable bedtime routine will cue Baby to the fact that it’s time to sleep. When wakings do inevitably happen, keeping the room as dark as you can will aid in helping Baby to fall back asleep. You can’t avoid sleep regressions altogether, but you can control how you handle them. Remember that babies can’t tell us what’s going on, so we want to respond with love and comfort. From a few days to a week or two, the regression will end. Remind yourself that this is a short term hiccup and baby will go back to sleeping at night soon. Let's hear from you! Have you made it through the four month sleep regression? What worked for you? If you’re not sure if it’s the 4 month, or any other sleep regression, book a free 15-minute call with me and we can talk specifically about your situation to determine what’s going on. Planning to sleep a little longer this Sunday morning?
It’s time to spring the clocks forward for the annual move to daylight savings time. Have no fear! I’ll tell you exactly what to do to adjust your baby or child’s schedule in 3 simple steps. 1. First, leave your clock alone Saturday night. Wake up Sunday morning at your usual time, have your coffee, then go around your house and change your clocks that didn’t change automatically. 2. Gradually move your child’s bedtime and nap times starting Sunday night. Children who no longer nap: If your child normally goes to bed at 7:00pm, put him/her to bed at 7:30pm on Sunday night. Do this for 3 nights, then on the 4th night put him to bed at 7:00pm or whatever is normal bedtime for your child. Toddlers (12 months and older)- Start with naps on Sunday and put your child down for their first nap 30 minutes later than normal on the first night of the time change. If your child usually naps at 9:30am, naptime on Sunday is now 10:00am. Do the same with the afternoon nap if there normally is one. For bedtime on Sunday, if your kiddo’s normal bedtime is 7:00pm, you would put him down at 7:30pm. Do this for 3 nights and then on the 4th night, put him to bed at 7:00pm. Within a week, you’re back to your child’s regular bedtime. Infants (6-12 months with a predictable bedtime)- If bedtime is normally 7:00pm, move bedtime 15 minutes earlier each night until you reach the normal time. On Sunday night, you would put baby down at 7:45pm, the second night 7:30pm, and so on. In four nights you should be back to 7:00pm. If their bedtime is not predictable (0-6 months old) simply jump to the new time Sunday night. 3. Make sure your child’s room is as dark as possible. Install blackout curtains if you don’t already have them. Your child may wake up too early with the sun rising so early now in the morning and may struggle to fall asleep while it is still light outside. Even with the extra hours of daylight, your child sleep needs the same amount of sleep. It may take children and babies a bit more time to fall asleep or not seem to be as tired as usual, which is normal. It usually takes about a week for children and babies to completely adjust to daylight savings time and some children may take up to 3 weeks to adjust. Be patient and consistent, and your child will be sleeping in no time! If you have any questions about how the time change will affect your child or about your child’s sleep, please send me an email at christine@sleepsolutionsbychristine.com As your baby gets older, one of the biggest questions parents have is when is their child is ready for a toddler or ‘big kid’ bed. You may be expecting another child, your child is trying to climb out of the crib or just does not seem to ‘like’ the crib anymore. Here are some tips to tell if your child is ready to move out of the crib. Tip #1Ask yourself why you’re considering a move out of the crib. If you are expecting another child and you need the crib but your older child is sleeping well, then purchase another crib. Do not change a great sleeping situation if you do not have to. If your child is climbing or attempting to climb out of the crib, make sure the crib is lowered as far as possible. If your child can still get out of the crib, it’s time for a big kid bed. Tip #2If you think your child just does not like the bed, take a look at what is going on leading up to bedtime. Is your child getting too excited during play or is your toddler just testing the waters to see if he/she can push bedtime? Make sure you know that if you put your child in a big kid bed that they understand they need to stay in bed all night. Tip #3If your child is old enough to ask for a new bed or wants to be like their friend with the big kid bed, it’s probably time to move out of the crib. Overall, it’s best to wait until your child is closer to 3 years old before switching to a big kid bed. Children younger than 2.5-3 years old may not grasp the concept of staying in bed all night and decide to use their new found freedom to run the house at 3am. Your child has to be ready for a different bed, not you, in order to be successful. Not sure if your child is ready or have sleep questions?
Email me at christine@sleepsolutionsbychristine.com or Schedule a free call and we’ll chat! Sleep Solutions by Christine offers baby sleep coaching services in the following areas:
If you're looking for solutions to help your baby or child fall asleep and sleep at night. then you've come to the right place. If you're confused, frustrated or exhausted. And if you need someone to tell you how to help your child sleep all night. then let's discuss a sleep solution for your family. Have you ever asked yourself these questions?
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