Bassinets are convenient when your baby is small. You may enjoy having your baby near your bed at night, and he may be comforted by the small, cozy space. Once your baby reaches the bassinet's weight limit or learns to push up on his hands and knees, you should move him to a crib to keep him safe, according to the March of Dimes Foundation.
Step 1
Place your baby in the crib during the day while you talk to him and play together. This will help him get familiar with the crib and teach him not to fear it.
Step 2
Put your baby in the crib at nap time once she is familiar with it. Napping in the crib will help your child get accustomed to the new sleeping arrangement without the pressure of sleeping through the night. Follow your normal nap time routine; the only difference is your baby will sleep in the crib instead of the bassinet.
Step 3
Start putting your baby in the crib at bedtime once he has been napping in it without a problem. Continue to follow any bedtime routines you have already established, such as nightly bathing, reading or cuddling, to keep things as normal as possible. If you have not already started a bedtime routine, it may be helpful to do so now to help your baby prepare for bed, according to WhatToExpect.com.
Tips and Warnings
- If you want your baby to continue sleeping in your bedroom, consider placing his crib in your room. This may make the transition easier for him. If your baby fusses when you place him in the crib, try sitting in his room for a while. Each night, move your chair a little closer to the door until you are out of the room, recommends WhatToExpect.com.
- Never place stuffed animals, pillows or other soft pillow-like objects in your baby's crib to comfort him. Such objects can suffocate a baby. Make sure your baby's crib is safe before you place him in it. It should have no more than 2 3/8 inches of space between slats, no corner posts over 1/16 of an inch high and no decorative cutouts on the headboard or footboard, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Be sure the crib is properly assembled and has no loose or missing parts.
