If Your Baby Won't Sleep Unless You're Holding Them, Stop Trying to Perfect the Transfer

If your baby will only fall asleep in your arms, you have probably spent a lot of nights trying to get better at putting them down. Going slower. Waiting longer. Feet first, then shoulders. One hand on the chest the whole way.

This episode is about why none of that effort is paying off, and what you should be trying to do instead.

In this episode:

• Why getting better at the transfer isn't going to fix this
• The question I'd rather you sit with, and where your baby is actually learning how to fall asleep
• What to shift instead, and why this is a gradual change and not a tonight change
• What to expect the first time you try it
• The two things your baby is learning inside the put-them-down, pick-them-up cycle
• What has to happen before your baby can even begin practicing

Mentioned in this episode: Not All Crying Is a Cry for Help, which is where I answer the how long do I let them cry question. Listen here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5ZHJs32E5sbD1PucDQCW88?si=gJFS80SrRpSCilvibFwkMQ

Try the Snooze Clues Companion free: https://app.snoozeclues.co/companionPersonalized week by week feeding and sleep guidance built on my method, plus answers in my voice whenever you need them, 24/7. Prenatal through age three.

Kristen Jacob is a Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant, Certified Lactation Counselor, and Newborn Care Specialist who has worked with more than 500 families.