Steps For Settling

Step 1: When your baby signals that they are tired, cuddle them against you and talk softly and soothingly, or quietly hum or sing.

Step 2: Take them to the room where they sleep, away from the household activities.

Step 3: Create the environment that signals to baby it’s bedtime. e.g. draw the blinds or curtains, put on some soft music.

Step 4: Wrap them, or dress them in a baby swaddle, and cuddle them against you until they’re calm.

Step 5: Place baby on their back in their bassinet or cot, on a firm mattress, as recommended by SIDS and Kids (see ‘Bedtime safety’).

Step 6: Gently pat or rock your baby briefly to settle them and then leave while they are still awake but calm.

Step 7: If your baby whimpers, wait a minute or so to see if they can settle on their own.

Step 8: If they continue to cry, or become distressed, return and try to comfort and settle them in the cot.

Step 9: If this does not work, pick them up and calm them in your arms by holding them close and gently swaying, but do not leave the room. Once they are calm, put them back into the cot. Place your hand gently on their chest for 30 seconds to reassure them then, if they are still calm, leave the room.