When should you put your baby to sleep in his or her room?
Getting your baby to sleep in their own room is a major milestone in a young child's life... and that of their parents. This transition can raise many questions: At what age can a baby sleep alone? Is he or she ready? And most importantly, how can you help your baby navigate this transition smoothly?
In this article, we help you see things more clearly, with the support of medical recommendations and advice from early childhood experts .
A landmark: the first 6 months
Official recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggest that babies sleep in the same room as their parents until 6 months, and ideally until 1 year .
“Room sharing, without bed sharing, for at least the first six months significantly reduces the risk of SIDS.” — AAP, 2022
This proximity also makes it easier to wake up at night, breastfeed, and respond quickly to baby's needs.
When can baby sleep in his room?
From 6 months onwards, many babies have a more stable sleep pattern. According to Dr. Arnault Pfersdorff , pediatrician and author of Bébé, premier mode d'emploi , some children can sleep alone in their room from this age, provided their emotional needs are met.
"A baby who sleeps 5 to 6 hours straight without waking up, who agrees to fall asleep alone, can start sleeping in his room if he feels confident."
Every baby develops at their own pace. It's not about following a strict rule, but about recognizing the signs of maturity and emotional comfort .
Signs that baby is ready to sleep alone
Here are some pointers, including advice from Caroline Ferriol, sleep consultant:
- Baby sleeps for several hours straight at night.
- He agrees to fall asleep alone or with a ritual.
- He is comfortable in his room, especially during naps.
- He shows less need for a constant presence to sleep.
These are positive signs that show that your child can experience this transition peacefully.
How to support the transition smoothly
1. Prepare the room
Create a quiet room with soft lighting, a comforter, or a nightlight. You can place an item of clothing that smells like you to reassure your child.
2. Get used to it gradually
Start with naps in his room. This will help him gently get used to his new space.
3. Establish a ritual
Psychologist Héloïse Junier reminds us that "routines reassure babies because they make everyday life predictable." A ritual (story, cuddle, soft music) makes bedtime easier.
4. Stay close without being intrusive
Use a baby monitor, and if necessary, stay in the room for a few minutes at first. Your presence reassures baby without hindering their independence.
What if baby refuses his room?
The refusal is sometimes temporary. According to child psychiatrist Myriam Szejer :
"A baby never cries to manipulate. He is expressing a need. The parent's role is to decode and support."
Reassure your baby, without systematically returning to the old configuration. Consistency and kindness will pay off.
And what about the parents in all this?
This stage can also be sensitive for parents. It's normal to feel guilty or worried. Remember that you're not distancing yourself from your child: you're helping them grow in confidence. And you're always available and nearby.
In summary
- Getting your baby to sleep in their own room can start around 6 months, depending on their rhythm.
- Respect your child's signals and support them gradually.
- Create a reassuring atmosphere, with stable rituals.
- Trust yourself: you know best what's best for him.
