The best place for baby to sleep: his own room!
First of all, ideally, your baby should have a room of their own (when the layout of your home allows, of course...). A baby's room should be their personal space, so avoid storing other children's toys or your belongings there. Make sure to keep the space tidy and clean!
Depending on the space available, try to set up the room so that it is easy to move around. Remember, during the first few weeks, you'll need to go in several times throughout the night. Make sure there's easy access to the bed, provide a comfortable area for breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, and a changing table on a dresser if the room is far from the bathroom. Add a lamp with soft lighting so you're not dazzled during the night.
If possible, the bed should not be placed behind the door, so your baby can see who is entering the room from an early age. Sleeping behind a door can cause stress and disrupt sleep; this applies to both children and adults!
The temperature of the room should not exceed 19°, in winter do not overheat the room and in summer ventilate as much as possible when it is cool and close the shutters during the day. If the temperature exceeds 22°, uncover baby by choosing light pyjamas and a summer sleeping bag. Whatever the season, don't forget to air the room every day.
The best bedding for baby
As far as sleeping is concerned, the best position is of course on the back, from birth until the age of one. Choose a bed with bars, ideal for air circulation and allowing baby to see through, so he doesn't feel locked in or isolated.
Also, make sure not to pile toys or stuffed animals in your baby's bed—only their favorite comfort toy should sleep with them!
Tipi beds are not recommended before the age of 18 months. After this age, they can however be a good solution for children to acquire a certain autonomy. Indeed, the bed placed on the ground allows them to easily go to bed and get up alone. In addition, Tipi beds are customizable and can be decorated to create a playful sleeping area.
If you want to decorate the room with a mobile, place it above your child's feet rather than directly over their head.
For the mattress, pediatricians recommend a semi-firm density for a good support, make sure that it is perfectly adapted to the dimensions of the bed so that there is no space between the mattress and the structure of the bed. Favour mattresses made of natural materials, guaranteed without chemical treatment offering a healthier sleep and without diffusion of products harmful to baby's health.
Wait until your child is over 18 months old before using a comforter and pillow. For toddlers, use a fitted sheet made from natural materials and a sleeping bag that keeps your baby's body warm while allowing them freedom to move. Even if they are active sleepers, they won't risk uncovering themselves or being woken by the chill.
To help your baby fall asleep, it's important to get them used to sleeping in the dark. If they're afraid of the dark (often around 8-9 months old), choose a small nightlight, but never leave the main light on.
By following these tips, you'll create a cozy cocoon for your child and an environment that encourages restful sleep.
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