If you've ever had a baby who seems allergic to sleep, you know how exhausting it can be. When your baby is clearly tired, it’s puzzling why getting them to sleep can feel like such a challenge. Isn’t sleep a natural instinct when you're exhausted? What’s the secret?
These questions haunt many parents, but sleep therapist Chrissy Lawler offers some hope. Lawler, a Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant and mother of four, shared her tips for helping babies fall asleep in just 30 seconds to two minutes with Good Morning America. Her advice may provide the relief many tired parents need.
“I’m all about empowering parents to get better sleep because it benefits everyone’s mental health and happiness,” Lawler says. She believes getting the timing right is key to helping babies sleep quickly.
Here are her top tips:
- Put Them to Sleep Before They’re Overtired
“With adults, the more tired we are, the better we sleep. But with babies, it’s the opposite,” Lawler explains. “The biggest mistake parents make is assuming that if a baby gets really tired, they’ll sleep better.” In reality, “sleep begets sleep,” she says—more rest helps babies sleep better. Watch for subtle signs like red eyes, spacey stares, light yawns, or early fussing. By the time they’re full-on tired, falling asleep will be harder. - Swaddle Newborns Snugly
“A good snug swaddle is everything,” Lawler says. It helps calm babies by recreating the cozy, secure feeling they had in the womb. Lawler demonstrates how to swaddle effectively in the video
- Bounce and Make “Shhh Shhh” Sounds
Babies often prefer being on their side to sleep, and some like a pacifier. After that, gentle bouncing or swinging and making “Shhh Shhh” sounds are key. “It’s not just about telling them to shush,” Lawler explains, “the sound mimics the soothing noise they heard in the womb.” - Gently Stroke Their Eyebrows
Lawler recommends a light stroke on the baby’s eyebrows to help their eyes close naturally. “It’s a subtle but effective intervention,” she says, showing how this can help babies drift off peacefully. - Transfer to Their Side Before Rolling Onto Their Back
When moving a sleeping baby into their crib, start by laying them on their side. This avoids triggering their startle reflex, making it easier to gently roll them onto their back without waking them.
“Parents, you are the expert for your baby,” Lawler encourages. “Take what you love from these tips and leave the rest!”