As a Sleep Consultant I always ask parents where their little ones nap and sleep at night.

Creating a calm, familiar environment for your little one to sleep in is a great idea. Even thought in the first few months they will be sleeping in your bedroom, using their room for nappy changes, feeding and some playtime will mean when they move to their own bedroom, they are already familiar with their space.  

Over 6 months the Lullaby Trust guidelines state that babies can safely sleep in their own room for naps and at night. I know this isn’t what all parents want and that’s fine, as a sleep coach though I find it really helps with reducing those night wakings.

As much as their little grunts and groans wake us, we disturb them. If breastfeeding and your wanting to cut down on the number of night feeds, little ones being in their own room can also help. Mum you are like a box of chocolates to them and they can smell your milk all night. I would turn over and want a caramel if there for the taking!

Having a simple routine, signalling to your little one that sleep is coming is of benefit. Using this for both naps and at bedtime creates consistency, which babies love.

Taking them to their room, or yours, closing the curtains or blinds, putting on their sleeping bag, feeding if due and reading a little story or singing a song are all positive sleep cues. At bedtime you can also proceed this routine with their bath time, research has shown that warming up in the bath and then cooling down can help with the falling asleep process.

I have put together some of my favourite and recommend products that will help with creating positive sleep patterns for your little one.