How to Get Baby to Sleep Through the Night - Secrets You Should Know

As parents we know that one of the toughest times of parenting is the struggles at bedtime and even hours after. After all, how to get baby to sleep through the night is a worth while challenge, as a proper sleep for any child is beneficial to his growth, well being, and behavior.

There is plenty of professional guidance available on this subject so I thought I would take it more personal and share the things that helped me have an independently sleeping child at one year old.

We already know that establishing a bedtime routine is a MUST. Below are some personal tips you can slide into your baby's bedtime routine.

1. Lil' light, lavender and Music

Lavender essential oil and music are a fabulous combination to relax and sooth the senses. Your baby is no different. Simply do the following:

- sprinkle a FEW drops of lavender essential oil on his pillow. Take care to close the bottle tightly and put in away where baby can't reach it.

- Play Soft, soothing music for him, preferably orchestra music. Do this before you read the story or sing a lullaby so your baby can begin to relax.

- Put a nightlight in the baby's room so he doesn't feel afraid as much when you are not there.

2. Dancing fish - An Aquarium Putting a small aquarium in my baby's room was one of my most successful ideas. It also functions as a great night light.

- Place it in an area where he can see it as he is lying down in his bed.

- Talk to him about the aquarium and how at bedtime he can watch the fish dance to the music. Give him 1-2 things to see or look for in the tank.

- When you are winding him down tell him he doesn't need to sleep (reverse psychology) but instead he can watch the fish dance to the music in the water, but must stay lying down in bed. Remember to put orchestra music for your child when you put him into bed.

- When you put him in his bed briefly remind him of the things to look for and the dancing fish.

- Do not take too long with the story and/or lullaby. It should be brief but not rushed.

3. Make a Deal

IF you notice your baby is heading toward the crying stage, while on his way to bed something you can try is to make a deal with him that you will read 2 stories instead of 1, or 2 songs instead of 1, IF he promises to stay in bed and not cry. Don't push the words "Sleep" or that he "must go to sleep now". You must stick to your promise and he must stick to his. Remind him of this. Once again, consistency is key to success.

4. Control your emotions

Do not let your baby see or feel you get agitated or affected by his crying. Often when a child sees this it tells him his parents might weaken and allow him to get away with things. If you have to, step away for a minute and take a breather. Be sure your baby is in a safe place while you do this.

These personal tips have had a huge success rate with both of my children and I have passed them on to friends and family with immensely positive feedback. They can be utilized along with professional guidance to help you get baby to sleep through the night.