Page 3 - Demo

Transition to BedThe safest place for a baby to sleep is alone in a crib that meets current Canadian safety regulations. A crib shouldnot be used if the child is taller than 90 cm or if they are able to climb out of it, whichever comes first. When yourbaby reaches this milestone, you should put them to sleep in a toddler or standard bed.You can start with naps. It is easiest to place their mattress on the floor so they don%u2019t fall. Once they stay on themattress, they can either move to a toddler bed or to a bigger bed with a rail to keep them from falling. As with anyother big change, try to time it for when the house is calm and in routine, not when they are sick, or you are goingback to work, or a new baby is coming home.Healthy SleepA bedtime routine will help your child get ready for a good night of sleep. Sleeping well is important for them to learnand grow! Here is a sample routine to folloStart the routine at about the same time every evening.Some nights they will need a bath.Change their diaper.Put their pyjamas onBrush their teethAfter you brush their teeth, they shouldn%u2019t have any more snacks or beverages except water.They will love it when you read a book and have some cuddles.Their room should be comfortable, quiet, and dark (a low nightlight is okay)What if they wake up in the middle of the night? Unless their diaper is wet or poopy, they should stay in their crib sothey can easily fall back asleep. Try to leave the light off and check if they are cold or too warm. Rub their back orstroke their arm to let them know you are there, and they should go back to sleep soon.Are They Having Trouble Going to Sleep?Cut out or cut down any screen time close to bedtime because this can make it hard for them to fall asleep.Having a TV or electronic games in their room isn%u2019t recommended, either.Make sure you don%u2019t feed your child anything with caffeine, such as chocolate or pop.They should get lots of play time during the day. Go outdoors to get some fresh air!Try doing relaxing activities before bed such as reading or listening to calming music.For more information about sleep, visitwww.caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/healthy_sleep_for_your_baby_and_child