Baby Won't Sleep in Crib - Brooklyn,NY

When my DD was younger I had to transition her back into her crib... I just did it slowly. I would put her in when she was sound asleep. If she woke up, I would get her asleep again and do it over again (repeat repeat repeat. lol) When she got used to that, I would let her get ALMOST asleep (eyes in that 'drifting shut' stage) and do that over and over until she got used to it. I just put her down more and more awake, so now I can put her in when she's just drowsy and she will fall asleep on her own. (except lately... She has learned to cruise the crib, so now it's a little bit of a battle. It's more fun to play than to sleep apparently!) I tried CIO too... but only lasted 2 days. lol.

Don't believe people that tell you unless you do CIO you will never get a good nights rest!! Make sleeping in the crib and the whole process of falling asleep very pleasant. Play some music, cuddle, give her a little stuffed animal she likes to hold, ect. Do the same routine every night. I also keep my hand on my son's chest until he falls asleep. Use a nightlight and if she cries more than a few minutes, pick her up and keep trying. It will work!

I response to your "What Happened" question regarding dependence on you I think there is no "1 size fits all answer". I personally think that we moms have to offer a secure and loving environment for our children and encourage them to become independant by giving them the tools they need to do it when they are ready. I think it also depends on the child. My son is very loving, sweet, and sensitive. Pushing him results in him getting very upset and frustrated. I would make sure your baby is very tired when putting her down. I know what they say about "sleep begets sleep" but I found that the more tired my son (obviously not delirious, but tired) the better he sleeps. Also, I know its hard, but you have to get her out of your room. She senses you are there and will wake up. It's hard, but I think that you will need to do that if you are to be successful.

Can you put the crib right next to your bed so you can reach through the rails and pat her back or hold her hand??? We don't believe in cry it out either and are currently co-sleeping with our 3 month old.

If you go back thru and look at some of my answers to sleep questions I have lots and lots of info posted about tips and tricks that I used along with the books that I used to learn about infant sleep. CIO never goes down in this house and I have 2 pretty darn good sleepers.