Freshstartsleep

The transition from swaddle to sleep sac is not as scary as it sounds, and it doesnt need to cause you sleepless nights! If you follow your little ones cues they will show you when the time is right! ⏰

Some of the signs that they are ready for the sleep sac:

1️⃣ No more startle reflex
2️⃣ Starting to roll over
3️⃣ Fighting the swaddle being put on before naps and night sleep
4️⃣ Wanting both arms out
5️⃣ Being able to remove the swaddle themselves
6️⃣ Taking one or both arms out mid sleep

If some or all of these seem to be the case with your little one here are some next steps to start the transition into a sleep sac:

• Start swaddling them with their arms out. You can try one arm first and then if they do well with that you can try both arms. (You can try this during nap times if you are fearful it will disrupt night sleep at first.) You can try this for a few days to see how they take to the change.
• If you find that your baby is not getting a good night's rest or is not taking restful naps with their arm(s) out then they may be too young or just not ready for the sleep sac just yet, that's okay! Keep them swaddled for a few more weeks and then try again!
• If they are sleeping well with their arms out in the swaddle and they aren't staying awake long periods during their naps or during night sleep then they are ready to transition! 👍🏻

One of our favorite sleep sacs are the Nested Bean Zen Sack, this one has a little light weight bean bag on the front that mimics someone's hand placed on their chest. ✋🏻

We also love the Burts Bees Beekeeper Organic Baby Wearable Blanket. It's very lightweight and breathable to prevent overheating. 🔥

All of our babies are different and will all move through this transition when they are ready, remember to be consistent and patient! You are the best parent/caregiver for your baby, trust yourself! You’ve got this! 😊

Why is having a consistent bedtime routine so important?

When you sit down and think about the routine of your own bedtime you will probably see some type of pattern there. You may shower once your kids are in bed, do your skincare routine, and then watch a half-hour of tv or do a half-hour of reading. Once you are on the last step you feel yourself getting tired and in that drowsy state for sleep. This is because your body is used to the routine you consistently follow before you go to sleep.
The same goes for our little ones! 👶🏽

That bedtime routine they have every single night sets the tone for sleep. It gives their mind and their body the cues that it is time to rest, relax, and settle down for a good night’s sleep! 😴

If your baby doesn’t have a consistent bedtime routine that’s okay! It is never too late to start! 👍🏻

Here is an example of an easy bedtime routine:

- A nice bath
- Some lotion and PJs
- Reading a couple of books (letting them choose the stories you read)
- Give them a big hug and kiss
- Turn on their white noise
- Turn off the lights
- Tell them “Sweet dreams, I love you. Goodnight.”

Keep in mind that 30 minutes is the sweet spot for how long the bedtime routine should be. If it’s too long they may get restless and if it’s too short their mind and body may not get the cues to sleep or have the time to properly wind down. ⏰

What does your bedtime routine look like? 💤