Let Sleeping Babies Sleep!

Well here it is again, 10:57 pm, and my little girl is wired up, ready to jump out of her crib at any minute. Most nights she cries until someone gives in and puts in a tape of Barney for her to fall asleep to. I don't condone it, and don't like it, but hey...she is satisfied long enough for mommy to get something done. Eventually she goes to sleep, but it's usually late, like tonight.

I have, however, found some interesting tips that I started using, and much to my suprise, they have started showing results. If you have a toddler like I do, these things could really come in handy! So, of course you know that I'm going to post these tips on here for the fellow mom's and pop's!

• One thing that can be done, which is VERY effective I have found, is giving your toddler a warm bath with lavender enfused bubbles. Lavender helps soothe and promotes a good night's sleep. Try to keep the bath enjoyable, but not to the point of where your toddler is hyped up from excitement and toys.
• Read a bed-time story. Read something that is not too long, and not too short. Try to pick something that will catch your baby's attention, but will also relax them. (I have personaly found that "Goodnight Moon" is a good choice for my little girl).
• If possible, spend a minute saying good night, tucking in, and singing a gentle tune to your little one. This relaxes and prepares them for falling asleep.
• Don't use complete silence as a tool for getting them to fall asleep. If they hear you rustling around in another room, they feel safer knowing you are near, and are less likely to cry and fuss.
• Give your little one an item of security. (My daughter has a blanket that she LOVES). Make sure this item does not venture outside of the bed, though, as that will be associated with a toy, or your child may become too attached to it outside of the bedroom.
• Warm milk before bed will help just about anyone, including adults, fall asleep more comfortably. So try giving a little to your baby before bedtime.

Of course there are more tips out there, but I found these to be the most influential. Enjoy, and good luck!