The Top 10 Sleep Mistakes Parents Make

Are you having difficulty getting your little one to snooze through the night? From establishing a routine to learning what to do if baby falls asleep before bedtime، this guide will help you understand some of the most common pitfalls—and how to avoid them.

There is no silver bullet when it comes to baby and toddler sleep. In fact، for most parents of little ones، trial and error is the name of the game. But did you know there are some common "mistakes" many parents make? It's true. From not establishing a bedtime routine to regularly letting your baby fall asleep before bedtime، there are some things which will sabotage even the best laid plans.

The Best Baby Sleep Tips Ever

Here، we asked several sleep experts to weigh in on some of the most common (and challenging) sleep issues infants and toddlers face.

Skipping the Bedtime Routine

Most people need time to wind down before bed، and babies are no different. A bedtime routine will not only help your little one get into relaxation mode before being placed in their crib، but it can also serve as a wonderful bonding experience for both of you.

"A bedtime routine is an easy strategy that makes a world of difference in how quickly your baby will settle to sleep and how much support [they'll] need to fall asleep،" says Megan Faure، author of The BabySense Secret. "As time-consuming or rigid as it may feel، it saves you time and energy in the long run."

Thirty minutes to one hour before bedtime، begin your routine. Close the curtains، dim the room، grab a book، and prepare a feeding. Start with a warm bath، which can help soothe your little one. Then، take them straight to their room and dress them in the darkened room with soft music.

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Feed your baby in your arms and then read them a story. Once you are finished، settle them into their bed. They should be drowsy but awake.

Ignoring Baby's Sleep Cues

Babies and toddlers send out signals that they're getting tired and need to go to sleep، says Kim West، author of The Sleep Lady's Good Night، Sleep Tight. Some of those cues include eye rubbing، yawning، slowed activity، whining and fussing، and loss of interest in people and play.