How can I keep my 5 month old from waking instantly when I put him down?

Question

My son has rarely slept on his own since he was born.
He's very sensitive and seems to wake up the second I put him down, day or night. Once in awhile he'll sleep, but never for even an hour. I love holding him and he's happy and fun when he's awake, but I worry about his safety when I fall asleep with him.

Answer 1

I know it's hard, but you may need to let him cry a bit, not long, and try to get out of the habit of holding him ALL the time. It only takes small changes to see big results. He is probably feeling insecure, when he is not in your arms. Give him some tummy time, or alone time on the floor and try putting him down while he is awake. Let him cry for a bit, it's all trial and error. Good luck.

Answer 2

I agree with ladyblack, as a mother of 3, i know how wonderful of a feeling a sleeping baby is in your arms, but....you really should put him to bed awake all the time. He must learn to fall asleep on his own. talk with him about it, when you put him to bed, stay with him for a min rubbing his back/belly/head just to get him relaxed then leave. let him cry. Crying does not hurt a baby. You can tell when the cry becomes distressed. Go back in several min. if he doesnt settle, talk calmly that its sleepy time, rub him again then leave. dont pick him up. it will all come together for you. good luck

Answer 3

not being funny here but you really need to try and get him into the habit of going down awake and falling asleep by himself. go to the discovery health website and look under the baby whisperer for useful tips on how to do this effectivly. If you don't do it now it will get harder as he gets older and you may find yourself with an extra person in your bed, which is no good for your relationship.

best of luck xx

Answer 4

I guess its a habit that will have to be gently broken. Try lying with your baby for a while and when you are sure he/she is really relaxed and sleeping soundly get up very quietly. Over time, decrease the amount of time you lie with your baby. I think thats the only way you will break this habit.

Answer 5

He has obviously got used to your warmth. When you put him down keep your hand over him for a while until you are sure he's gone to sleep. When your hand is over him he still thinks you are holding him then try and slowly take it off little by little. If you think he's getting up you have to put your hand back. It's hard but it worked for me.

Answer 6

you have to let him cry out for 2 mins. ONLY the ppl are saying to never let him down but you are the parent here just tell him to calm down...maybe u hold him too much