Why your baby hates their crib
And what to do about it
It’s bedtime for baby so you close the curtains, dim the lights and put on their sleep sack. After a cuddle and a lullaby, you lower your sleepy baby down in their cot, only for them to scream, cry, squirm and do everything in their power to avoid going in there! It's frustrating, right?
Well, it’s SO common for babies to dislike their crib. And while contact napping is totally fine if you want to do it, it’s completely normal to want to achieve some crib naps as well. Keep reading to see what causes your baby to get all fussy when it’s time to get into their own sleep space and for a few simple ways to overcome this hurdle.
Why does it happen?
There are several reasons why babies dislike their crib:
Separation anxiety: Going from the cozy warmth of your arms to the big, open space of a cot can be kinda scary for your little one. They might miss your warmth, scent and movement. A crib is cold, flat and doesn’t move! Not exactly sleep-inducing if you ask them!
Negative associations: If your baby has had some not-so-fun experiences in their cot, like feeling uncomfortable, they'll start associating it with negative emotions. Making it challenging for them to relax and fall asleep.
It’s a sensory thing: Newborn babies especially are not used to lying on their back so this can feel really weird for them! Because of safe sleep regulations, a newborn baby should always be placed onto their back in the crib, which can cause them to be uncomfortable.
“Babies are hardwired to be close to their caregivers, it’s how they survive.”
Ways to overcome cot aversion:
To overcome these hurdles, it’s important build a positive relationship with the crib. Once they feel safe and secure, it will be an environment for them where they feel like they can relax and fall asleep. Try using these top tips to accomplish successful crib sleep!
Rebuild positive associations: This is a big one! Introduce positive experiences around the cot by engaging in fun activities in and around the cot during the day such as reading books, singing lullabies, playing peek a boo, etc. Gradually, your baby will associate the cot with positive associations.
Gradual transitions: Ease the transition from your arms to the cot by using a gradual approach. Start by placing your baby in the cot for shorter periods while offering reassurance and gradually increase the duration. This helps them build trust and confidence in their sleep space.
Optimise the sleep environment: Ensure the cot mattress is supportive and comfortable for your baby's growing body. Add white noise, make the room nice and dark and make sure the room is not too hot or cold.
Make it smell and feel like you: One of the reasons babies don’t love their cot, is because it’s not you! Babies are hardwired to be close to their caregivers, it’s how they survive. Making sure the cot smells like you by placing their sheet over your pillow for a night, or stacking the sheet in between your clothes will help them feel at home. Pre-warming their cot help make it feel like you as well.
Practice makes ‘perfect’: Practicing one crib nap a day for starters, will help them get used to their own sleep space. The morning nap will be perfect for this, as their sleep drive is quite high at this time so falling asleep will be easier. If the crib feels a bit too scary, you can start by practicing having them sleep on their back in the stroller. The movement and more ‘cozy’ sleep space can make it easier for them to fall asleep.
Cot aversion can be a real headache, but with a little bit of patience and some of the tips I’ve shared, you'll help your baby see their cot as a cozy sanctuary. Remember, each baby is unique, so customise your approach based on what works best for your little one. By creating a comfy sleep environment and building positive associations, you'll conquer cot aversion and give your baby the chance to sleep in their own sleep space.
