It is adorable but most of the time exhausting for you as a parent if your baby won’t sleep unless held. It can feel overwhelming, especially during sleepless nights when nothing works. But you shouldn’t worry, as this is a common challenge that many parents face.
If your newborn prefers certain positions, like sleeping on the side, you might find this another problem with the sleep dilemma. If you’re looking for practical solutions, you’ve come to the right place. And if your baby waking up too early, we’ve got tips to help you handle that too.
Why Babies Want to Be Held
Babies biologically want closeness with their parents. Evolutionary biology explains that infants feel safest when held. This instinct is a fourth-trimester theory, which suggests that newborns are still adapting to life outside the womb.
So, the baby craves warmth and security, which the baby feels inside. If your teething baby won’t sleep unless held , it means your baby wants to feel a regular body temperature, heart rate, and stress levels.
It’s important to understand that this behaviour is completely normal and a natural developmental phase. It’s not that your baby is trying to manipulate you or form bad habits. All your baby is relying on you for comfort and security. As the baby grows and develops self-soothing skills, this need lessens.
Now, let’s discuss what if your 6 month old baby won’t sleep unless held. And, what you can do
Transition to Independent Sleep
To help your baby sleep, start by holding them until they’re drowsy but not fully asleep, then gently place them in their crib. This helps your baby to associate the crib with falling asleep. Or you can get your newborn to sleep in the bassinet. Gradually, reduce the time you spend holding your baby and increase the time in the crib on their own.
You should also do calming activities like rocking, lullabies, infant toys, or a warm bath before bedtime. Dim the night lights for kid to signal that it’s time to sleep. And, don’t forget to stick to your approach even if it feels slow. Be gentle by providing comfort while encouraging your baby to adjust to sleeping in their crib.
Cozy Sleep Environment
A cozy sleep environment can help your baby feel secure and comforted. Swaddles or sleep sacks are great tools to mimic the snug if your baby won’t sleep unless held 1 month. Also, white noise machines can recreate the soothing sounds of the womb to promote relaxation and sleep.
A dark, comfortably cool room (around 68–72°F) is ideal for sleep, otherwise, your baby feels too hot while sleeping. Nursery curtains can block excess light, while a fan or cool mist humidifier can maintain a comfortable climate.
Always prioritize safe sleep practices by laying your baby on their back to sleep. However, don’t ignore if your baby sleeps with their butt in the air too much. Following these guidelines can help if your teething baby won’t sleep unless held peacefully.
Sleep Training Techniques
Sleep training techniques can also help if your baby won’t sleep unless held. You should use methods, like the pick-up-put-down approach or pat-and-shush technique.
These involve soothing your baby in the crib with touch or sound while gradually reducing your involvement over time. If you have a 6 month old baby won’t sleep unless held, you should use gradual extinction methods, like waiting a few minutes before responding to fussing.
The key to successful sleep training is timing. It’s best to wait until your baby is at least 4–6 months old, as younger infants still need frequent nighttime feedings and comfort. At this stage, babies are developmentally ready to begin forming sleep habits and routines.
Tips for Success:
- Start with short intervals, increasing them gradually.
- Be consistent with your approach, even if it feels challenging.
- Offer plenty of comfort during daytime hours to reassure your baby emotionally.
Use a Baby Carrier for Daytime Naps
Baby wearing can be a lifesaver for you as a parent if your baby prefers being held to sleep. Sometimes, parents are too eager to know how to put a baby to sleep in 40 seconds. However, you shouldn’t hurry your infant baby to sleep.
A baby carrier or sling allows you to keep your little one close, providing the warmth and comfort they crave while freeing up your hands for other tasks. Babies often sleep longer in carriers, reducing over tiredness and improving overall sleep quality.
To make baby wearing safe and comfortable.
- Choose an ergonomically designed carrier that supports the baby’s hips and spine.
- Ensure the baby’s face is always visible and their airway is clear.
- Follow the “TICKS” rule: Tight, In view at all times, Close enough to kiss, Keep the chin off the chest, and Support back.
Daytime naps in a carrier won’t replace nighttime crib sleep but can offer much-needed relief if your baby won’t sleep unless held. As your baby grows, they’ll naturally become more comfortable with other sleep arrangements.
Gentle Motion Alternatives
If your baby won’t sleep unless held, introducing gentle motion alternatives can be a lifesaver. A rocking bassinet or baby swing can mimic the soothing movement they crave, helping them drift off without being in your arms. These tools create a comforting rhythm that many babies find calming, allowing you to step back while they settle.
Ensure that any motion device you use is safe for sleep and meets recommended guidelines. While they can be helpful for naps, avoid over-relying on them for nighttime sleep. Gradually transition your baby to their crib once they feel more comfortable sleeping without constant motion.
Conclusion
Parenting a baby who won’t sleep unless held is challenging but deeply rooted in their need for comfort and connection. With patience, consistency, and thoughtful strategies, you can help your baby develop healthy sleep habits while ensuring they feel loved and secure.
Remember, every baby is unique, and progress takes time. Celebrate small victories and trust that these precious moments of closeness, though exhausting now, are fleeting and will soon transform into cherished memories.
