How to Switch From a Bassinet to a Crib

One of the hardest parts of being a new parent is realizing that it's time to move your baby from a bassinet to her crib in another room. While there is no set time to make the transition, the general rule of thumb is to move the baby when she continuously sleeps for longer periods of time through the night. With a consistent routine and determination, transitioning a baby will be an easy task.

Instructions

    • 1

      Arrange the nursery. Place a rocker or glider near the crib but out of the baby's sight while he is laying in the crib. For peace of mind during the night, purchase a set of baby monitors. Place the monitor near the crib with wires out of the baby's reach. Purchase a nightlight and plug it in near the crib so you can easily access the baby in the middle of the night.

    • 2

      Put the baby down for naps in his crib. Begin this routine a few weeks before the transition. Encouraging him to nap in the crib during the day will get him used to the crib and ease the separation process at night.

    • 3

      Put the baby down for naps when she is slightly awake. This process will teach her how to settle down and fall asleep on her own. This will help with nighttime wakings and encourage her to settle and go back to sleep.

    • 4

      Develop a routine. Stick to a nightly routine, such as bath, massaging with baby lotion, pajamas, bottle, book and bed. Begin this routine around the same time you begin placing the baby for naps in the crib.

    • 5

      Put the baby to bed in his crib. Begin with your nightly routine and instead of putting him to sleep in the bassinet, lay him down slightly awake in his crib. Say your good nights and leave the room.

    • 6

      Allow her to cry. Listen through a few minutes of fussing before you enter the room. If at all possible, don't pick her up, rather rub her belly or whisper encouragements to her to fall asleep. If this does not work, pick up the baby and rock her to sleep. Lay the baby down and leave the room.

    • 7

      Repeat the process every night until the baby successfully goes to sleep in the crib.

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