Lately, I've been chatting with lots of new moms who are eager to help their babies sleep better. They're worried about creating bad habits and looking for solutions. It's a mix of hope and worry, but it shows how much they care about their little ones.
These moms want the best for their babies, and they're not afraid to ask for help. They're worried about their baby's health and happiness, which is a big deal. That's why finding ways to help them sleep better is so important.
Understanding The Soothing Ladder.
Let's talk about The Soothing Ladder, a tool I recently discovered (though it's been around for years, I've just started working with it in my consultations). The Soothing Ladder is designed to help you achieve two goals: responding to your baby's needs while also allowing them to discover what comforts them.
It begins with minimal intervention from parents or caregivers and progresses to more active soothing methods. However, you can adjust it to suit your preferences and your baby's needs. The Soothing Ladder was developed by Heather Turgeon and Julie Wright and detailed in their book "The Happy Sleeper".
Here's how it works, but keep reading to learn how you can customize it to fit your unique situation.
How to Use It.
The Soothing Ladder works best for babies who are a few weeks old to about five months. You start by being close to your baby at bedtime or when they wake up at night. Then, you try different things like talking softly or touching them gently. If one thing doesn't work, you move to the next until your baby feels better. It's like trying different keys until one of them unlocks the door.
Stay in each step for at least 30 seconds (I suggest 30 seconds to 1 minute), depending on how your baby is reacting and how you are feeling. If the current step is not working, then move on to the next one.
Making It Fit Your Baby.
You can change The Soothing Ladder to fit your baby. Maybe your baby doesn't like pacifiers, so you skip that step and try something else. It's all about finding what helps your baby feel calm and happy. Some babies like being rocked, while others prefer just being held close. You'll figure out what works best for your baby by trying different things and seeing what they like.
Things to Think About.
Remember, it's okay to feed your baby if they're hungry, especially if they're really little. But it's also okay to try other things first. Just trust your instincts and talk to your doctor if you're not sure. And don't worry if it takes a little time to figure out what works best for your baby. Every baby is different, and it's all part of the adventure of being a parent.
Helping your baby sleep better might seem tricky, but The Soothing Ladder can make it simpler. By trying different steps and listening to your baby, you'll figure out what works best for them. So, take a deep breath, trust yourself, and enjoy those sweet baby cuddles. After all, you're doing an amazing job, and your baby is lucky to have you!