Everything You Need To Know About Contact Napping

In the world of parenting, there's a term that often brings about mixed feelings: naptime. While it's a much-needed break for both baby and parents, getting your little one to settle down for a nap can sometimes feel like a challenging task. Here is where contact napping might be useful.

What is contact napping? 

Contact napping is when a baby sleeps while being held or in close contact with a parent. Whether it's in a sling, a wrap, or simply in the parent's arms, contact napping provides comfort, security, and a sense of closeness that is unmatched by any other form of naptime.

What age does contact napping work best for?

It works best and helps newborns. With older babies (6 months+) when their naps are fully developed, you can start working on sleep coaching if needed or want to help them sleep smoothly on their own and without the need of contact sleep.

So, when should you consider incorporating contact napping into your routine? 

There are several scenarios where contact napping can be particularly beneficial, like:

1. During those fussy periods when your little one just can't seem to settle down. Contact napping can work wonders in soothing a fussy baby, providing them with the comfort and security they need to drift off into dreamland.

2. It is a lifesaver when you're on-the-go. Whether you're out running errands or enjoying a day out with the family, being able to wear your baby and allow them to nap while staying close to you is incredibly convenient. No need to worry about finding a suitable nap spot or disrupting your plans – simply wear your baby and let them nap on the move.

But what if you need to end the contact nap because it is affecting your little one’s quality of sleep or because you don’t have the opportunity to do it.

Transitioning a sleeping baby from your arms to their sleep space can sometimes feel like a delicate operation. 

Here are three tips to help make the transition as smooth as possible:

1. Create a Cozy Environment

   Once your baby is in a deep sleep, gently transition them to a comfortable sleep space. Use white noise and swaddling if it helps your baby feel secure and snug.

2. Gentle Movement

   Slowly shift your baby from your arms to their sleep space, maintaining a gentle rocking or swaying motion to help them stay asleep. The key here is to move slowly and steadily to avoid waking them up.

3. Patience and Consistency

   Be patient if your baby wakes up during the transition. Comfort them and try again, staying consistent with your approach. Remember, it may take some trial and error to find what works best for your little one.

Have you tried all the above with no success?

If your baby wakes during the transition or is having short naps, then maybe it’s time you explore sleep coaching to help your baby fall asleep in their own bed rather than having contact naps, if your baby is 5 months+.

Here are 5 tips to help you get started with sleep coaching.

If you tried sleep coaching and it did not work with you this blog will help you trouble-shoot it well.

Please note: Babies under the age of one are at risk of SIDS, and you always need to make sure that they are fully supervised when they are not sleeping on their back. Also ensure to follow the safe sleep recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics.