Settling Baby

  Settling baby involves making everything possible to making sure that baby sleeps well. After feeding, burping baby, BATHING BABY, BABY MASSAGE, there are other ways to settle baby.

In settling baby:

• speak soothingly to baby
• gently rock the bassinette
• play soft music
• gently pat the back of nappy area
• gradually withdraw as baby sleeps or appears relaxed and sleeping

Further actions if baby still refuses to settle:

• pick up and nurse baby
• check if nappy needs a change
• try burping baby
• place baby in a pram and rock over bump in tiles or floor coverings
• give 30mls of warm boiled water

  Some babies sleep better with background noise of the family bustling around or soothing music playing. Some babies need to be taken in their car seats and driven around the block to fall asleep. It is up to individual parents to decide but if worried about anything concerning baby, then the family Health Care Professional must be consulted.

  For the sleep-deprived mother, working around the home with baby carried around in a front-facing or back-facing sling is ideal. Baby may fall asleep easily being close to mother or caregiver. Sometimes babies fall asleep in their bouncers with mother's soothing songs and talking. Make sure baby is secure inside the straps of the bouncer and not slide off.

  Hazards to watch for are soft mattresses, tummy sleeping and overheating. Pillows and soft toys are not recommended for babies under 6 months.