There are tons of tips and tricks on the web to help your baby sleep. But if there is one thing I have learned, it is that every child is unique. Although my two children do not have any sleep disorders (bye bye to the period of night terrors and separation anxiety!), I must admit that it has not always been easy. While my son was sleeping through the night at four months, my daughter was still waking up several times a night at the age of 3. Today, they both sleep soundly, except when they have colds, but that is another story!
It is often said that around the age of six months, the pre-bedtime routine and consistency are allies to baby's sleep. Of course, gestures are important, but we should not underestimate the power of accessories and products intended for babies and toddlers that give tired parents a helping hand. Here are 5 that have proven themselves.
A comfortable and safe bassinet
Sleeping in a comfortable and safe place is the basis. For little ones as well as for the big ones.
According to the Canadian Paediatric Society, the safest place for an infant to sleep is in their own crib, in their parents' room for the first six months.
It starts with buying a quality bed that meets the highest industry standards. And if the bed is also scalable and transformable , it becomes a smart purchase.
In addition to being made in Quebec, Natart furniture is robust, transformable and made of certified green materials. Above, the Ithaca collection.
A rocking chair
If there is one activity that never goes out of style and that allows you to comfort your baby, while establishing a pre-bedtime routine, it is rocking him. In addition to soothing him and preparing him for sleep, this moment of closeness and tenderness also helps to increase the attachment bond and, as a result, reduce separation anxiety.
Which rocking chair to choose? Check out the rocking chairs and armchairs section , available to order and for delivery.
We love the design of the Margot armchair and the Lollipop bed from Quebec manufacturer Dutailier.
A very soft comforter
To fall asleep, babies need to feel safe. This is why swaddling is a recognized technique for keeping babies safe. For this, the small muslin blanket remains essential, in addition to being useful on many occasions. Although it is thin, it helps regulate the child's internal temperature, soothe them, and even prevent them from jumping up during the night.
Multifunctional, it also serves as a reference point for the baby, whether in his bassinet, in his stroller or when traveling.
The Mini Scout fall collection is available in different patterns in warm tones.
A sound night light
It's proven: certain sounds and music help babies fall asleep. But after singing all the nursery rhymes in our repertoire, accessories come to our rescue.
Who remembers Sophie la girafe? This classic toy from several generations is renewed and transformed into a 3-in-1 projector that projects pretty stars on the ceiling in addition to producing relaxing and calming sounds, such as nature sounds and heartbeats. We love it!
Looking for a night light to avoid stubbing your toes at night? Several models are available in store , with or without sound.
A sleeper or a sleeping bag
Changing your baby's diaper in the middle of the night can be a real ordeal, even torture, especially when your baby is cold and you have to quickly close the tiny snaps in the dark.
Just for this reason, but especially for the well-being of the child, I have always been a fan of sleepers, which are also called sleeping bags or night bags, depending on the brand.
In fact, the Canadian Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths has stated that "sleepers are wearable blankets designed to provide safe sleep and can be used as an alternative to a blanket."
Which one to choose? There is something for all tastes and seasons .
Among our favorite models, we like the Perlimpinpin bamboo muslin night bag with reverse zipper (photo below): ultra practical and comfortable!
Or the Little Yogi kimono-style bow sleeper , which is easy to put on and covers baby's hands. Psst! We love the new colors!
One of the most popular on the market (and rightly so!) is the Love to Dream swaddle (cover photo): it allows your baby to sleep in a more natural position and self-soothe by sucking their thumb.
Here are some other favorite products:
Because all five senses have their beneficial effects, we must not forget the importance of smell. Certain smells, like that of a comfort blanket or your favorite sweater, can be reassuring for the baby. This is also the case for the soft and comforting mist of Lolo and me which encourages relaxation.
Another way to promote relaxation is massage. Adding a moment of touch during the evening routine has its benefits; for this, we use a gentle massage oil specially formulated for baby's skin.
Because you don't want to sing lullabies all night long (!), a sound machine is a must. With 16 sound options, this one from Marpac will give you (and baby) a great night's sleep!
Bedaine Urbaine's advice: follow your instinct
The different techniques aren’t working? Baby still not sleeping through the night? “Trust yourself, Mom! Follow your maternal instinct,” says Marie-Pier Villeneuve, founder of Bedaine Urbaine , a Quebec City service agency that supports new parents with workshops and personalized advice focused on sleep.
A TopTop mom herself, Marie-Pier advocates autonomy and respect rather than rigid, timed techniques.
Her second piece of advice: adjust, take your time and let go. “Mothers put too much pressure on themselves,” she says. Every baby learns to sleep through the night at their own pace, and even when they sleep well, there can be setbacks.
When should you act? “Prevention is better than being in a state of emergency,” she says. In other words, it’s best to learn about the different techniques and tips before you’re at the end of your rope. And consult her , if necessary.
So you can sleep soundly. :-)
*Cover photo: Love to Dream swaddle. Credit: @elisabethabbatiello