I’m hearing a lot of theory on baby sleep habits lately. Especially “if you keep the house noisy the baby will learn to sleep through it!”
I’m of the opinion that babies are who they are pretty much regardless of what we try to make them be. I have the feeling that if your baby isn’t a light sleeper, you might say something like this. However, if you’re a new parent, and you find that when you turn on the TV, dryer, or garbage disposal while baby is sleeping and baby wakes up, you’ll pretty much quit doing those things and let baby sleep.
What do you think? Do we, as parents, shape our babies sleep habits? Or, like so many other ways, are they just their own little people in this respect?
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After a year of trying to figure out baby sleep, I’ve decided they are who they are. I’ve been fortunate to be blessed with a heavy sleeper, but that doesn’t keep me from tip-toeing around the house most of the time, just in case. Honestly, if I had a dollar for every bit of baby sleep advice I’ve been given, I’d be a millionaire. At the end of the day, I think you have to do what works for you and your baby.
I honestly believe it is a combination of both temperament and parent behavior. Some kids are going to sleep no matter what and some kids need more help. The most important thing I think is that you make every effort to make sure they do get enough sleep. That may mean ridiculous schedules, extra routines and dirty looks from parents who never had to do that, but it makes for a happier and healthier kid!