Time for a Nap

Nap Routines

We have a nighttime routine of bath, breastfeeding, and book before bed. Should we do something similar before putting her down for a nap?

Yes, but keep the process short. Reading her the same book or singing the same lullaby you do at bedtime should be enough to help her get to sleep. "The more steps your baby associates with bedtime, the more she'll need to fall asleep," says Dr. Owens. "You should put her in bed drowsy but awake. Let her fuss and cry a bit -- reassuring her too much will just prolong the process. The point is to teach your infant to soothe herself."

My 6-month-old will only sleep in the stroller. How can I get her to nap in her crib?

Is she frequently out for walks at naptime? If so, that could be contributing to the problem. Occasionally sleeping in the stroller isn't a big deal, but if it becomes a habit that comes at the expense of naps in a crib, you need to break it. Try to keep her out of the stroller when she's tired, and instead put her down in the crib. Create an environment conducive to sleep by darkening the room and doing that mini version of your bedtime routine. She may protest at first, but she'll soon adapt.