Moving Your Little One Into Their Own Room

According to Safer Sleep Guidelines, for the first six months of your baby’s life, it is safest that they sleep in a cot or crib in the same room as you every time they sleep. However, it can be daunting to think about the best way of moving your little one into their room after this period.

Time to Move?

There is no right or wrong answer to the question of when it is best to move your baby into their own room after they have reached the six-month mark. If you and your little one are happy sleeping in the same room, then there is no need to make a move just yet. However, if you want to move your wee one, there are many ways to make the transition easier.

Cot and Room Play

It is a great idea to get your little one used to being in their room and their cot from early on. You can start getting your little one accustomed to their room any time from birth onwards. Taking them into their room and playing with them when they are alert and happy can help them start feeling comfortable and content in the environment, and it will soon become a familiar and safe place for them. 

You can also get your baby used to their cot in the same way – for a couple of minutes each day, lie them in their cot and play with them. This should be well away from sleep time and make sure that the room is bright, with curtains open, to appear very different from nap or bedtime. Do anything that makes them laugh – sing songs, tickle their toes – anything that again creates a positive and happy feeling when they are in their cot. The laughter will help your wee ones release endorphins, helping them feel a more positive association with their sleep environment.

Sleep Environment

I’m sure that you’ve put a lot of thought into your baby’s nursery, making it look as lovely as possible! Here’s a quick recap of the optimal environment for babies to sleep in.

• The ideal temperature is between 16 and 21°C
• Check for any bright light coming in from hallways or the edge of curtains, the room should be on around on 8 on a scale of 1 –  10 with 10 being pitch black
• Ensure that there is no loose bedding, soft toys or bumpers in the cot
• Check that your baby can’t get hold of any cords from blinds, baby monitors etc
• Have a quick check over of the decor  – is it “calming”? Nothing there that could be seen as scary by a little one

I hope that this has been helpful and you find your little one’s transition into their room is a smooth one! Do drop me a message if you have any additional questions. I’m happy to help! Good luck!