Why its so important to teach your baby how to self soothe NZ

Congratulations on your new arrival!

As a parent, one of the most important things you can do for your baby is to help them learn how to self-soothe. Self-soothing is the ability to calm oneself down when feeling upset or distressed, and it’s a crucial skill that your baby will use throughout their life. In this blogpost, we’ll explore the benefits of self-soothing, some practical strategies for teaching your baby how to self-soothe, and how to customise these strategies for the unique needs of your baby.

Benefits of Self-Soothing for Babies

Learning how to self-soothe has numerous benefits for babies. Firstly, it helps them to develop a sense of independence and autonomy. Instead of relying solely on a caregiver to soothe them, they learn how to manage their emotions and feelings on their own. Secondly, self-soothing can help your baby sleep better at night. By teaching your baby to fall asleep without the need for external stimulation or intervention, they’re more likely to sleep through the night and get the rest they need to grow and develop. Finally, self-soothing can help your baby manage stress and anxiety. As they get older and face new challenges and situations, they’ll be better equipped to cope and manage their emotions.

Strategies for Teaching Self-Soothing

There are several strategies you can use to help your baby learn how to self-soothe. It’s important to note that not all babies are the same, so what works for one baby may not work for another. You may need to experiment with different approaches and find the ones that work best for your baby.

1. Establish a Bedtime Routine

A consistent bedtime routine can help your baby relax and prepare for sleep. A good routine might include a warm bath, a bedtime story, and a lullaby or calming music. By establishing a routine, your baby will learn to associate these activities with sleep, making it easier for them to fall asleep independently.

1. Offer a Comfort Object

Many babies find comfort in a special blanket or stuffed animal. These objects can provide a sense of security and familiarity, making it easier for your baby to soothe themselves when they’re feeling upset. Just be sure to choose a safe object that doesn’t pose a choking hazard and for younger babies make sure nothing is going to cover their faces.

1. Encourage Self-Soothing During the Day

During the day, try to give your baby opportunities to practice self-soothing. For example, if they’re upset because they can’t reach a toy, give them a few minutes to try to figure out how to get it themselves. You can also offer words of encouragement to help them feel confident in their abilities.

1. Gradually Reduce Nighttime Soothing

If your baby relies on you to soothe them to sleep at night, try gradually reducing your intervention. For example, if you typically rock your baby to sleep, try reducing the amount of time you rock them each night until they’re able to fall asleep on their own. You can also try patting or gently rubbing their back instead of picking them up.

1. Use the “Fading Method”

The “fading method” involves gradually decreasing the amount of external soothing you provide. For example, you might start by patting your baby’s back until they’re calm, then stop patting but stay near them until they fall asleep. Over time, you can gradually move farther away until your baby is able to fall asleep on their own without your presence.

Remember, teaching your baby to self-soothe is a gradual process, and it may take time and patience. Be sure to offer plenty of love and support along the way, and celebrate each small step of progress.

Customising Strategies for Your Baby

As mentioned earlier, every baby is unique, so it’s important to customise these strategies based on your baby’s personality and needs. Some babies may respond better to a certain type of comfort object, while others may need more encouragement during the day to practice self-soothing. As you experiment with different strategies, pay attention to your baby’s cues and adjust accordingly.

It’s also important to note that while teaching your baby to self-soothe is important, it’s equally important to respond to their needs and provide comfort when necessary. Remember, babies rely on their caregivers for safety and security, and it’s important to provide that comfort and reassurance when they need it. Newborn babies need you to respond to them especial in the first 8 weeks. Go to them when they cry, pick them up and comfort them. Create the bond and reassurance for them to know they're loved and safe.

In conclusion, teaching your baby to self-soothe is an important skill that will benefit them throughout their life. By establishing a consistent bedtime routine, offering a comfort object, encouraging self-soothing during the day, gradually reducing nighttime soothing, and customising strategies for your baby’s unique needs, you can help your baby develop the skills they need to manage their emotions and feelings independently. With patience, love, and support, you can help your baby thrive and grow into a confident, independent individual.