Your baby becoming more mobile is an exciting time for most parents! But it can also be a little frightening as it opens a whole new world for little ones to explore–including the crib while they sleep.
Babies rolling over in crib can be scary the first time it happens, especially since we know putting little ones to sleep on their back is the safest. It leaves many parents concerned and wondering “what should I do if my baby rolls over in sleep?”
Let’s take a closer look at what to do when your child starts hitting this important milestone.
When Do Babies Start Rolling Over?
Rolling over is a perfectly normal (and exciting) milestone! The exact time frame for it to happen varies by child, but you will typically start to see signs by 4 months old. At this point, most little ones begin to rock from side to side. This motion is the foundation for rolling over.
You’ll often see babies master rolling from tummy to back first. From their stomachs, it is easier to propel themselves over using their arms. By about 6 months, many babies will have also mastered the ability to roll from back to front, which they may do while asleep.
Exciting? Yes. Nerve wracking? Uh huh. That’s why HALO SleepSure smart monitor is designed to track 4 sleep measures, including rollover. Parents receive alerts if their baby may have rolled from their back and can then decide if they want to check them and/or adjust their sleep position.
Remember, all children are different. Some become pros at rolling over by 6 months (or sooner) and others it might take a little while.
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Why Does My Baby Roll Over in Sleep?
As children get older and become more mobile, they naturally start to move more no matter where they are. This is important to aid in the development of helping them figure out how to control their bodies. They’ll take advantage of any opportunity, including sleep time!
Another reason you might see babies rolling on stomach while sleeping is similar to why adults change position during sleep, too. They’re trying to get more comfortable! For some parents, this is actually a good thing because instead of waking up and crying because they are uncomfortable, babies are now able to get themselves to a more comfortable position.
Regardless of the reason, it’s important for parents to remember that this is a normal and healthy stage in their little one’s development.
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When Can Baby Sleep on Stomach?
Waking up and seeing your baby sleeping on stomach after rolling over might be shocking at first and send parents into a bit of a panic. After all, safe sleep practices determined by the American Academy of Pediatrics clearly state that children should always be put to bed on their backs until at least one years old.
However, once children are able to roll on their own from back-to-front and front-to-back, it is considered safe to let them sleep that way if they are able to get themselves into the position.
As mentioned, the exact age for babies rolling on stomach while sleeping will vary by child. Some little ones will be able to safely roll to sleep on their stomachs around 4 months. Others might not reach that point till 6 months or later. Just keep an eye on what your child is capable of.
How to Practice Safe Sleep Once Baby Starts Rolling
If your little one has started to roll and you’re trying to figure out how to keep baby from rolling over in crib, stop stressing yourself out! Once they’ve started rolling, it’s best to figure out how to keep them safe instead of how to prevent the baby from rolling over in crib in the first place.
Most importantly, just because your baby is rolling does not mean you no longer need to listen to AAP guidelines for safe sleep. In fact, it is more critical than ever to make sure these other recommendations are followed.
A primary safety tip for once a baby starts rolling is to make sure the sleeping space remains free. This means no pillows, blankets, stuffed animals, or any other objects in order to decrease the risk of suffocation. Be sure the crib sheet is also tight and flat!
For extra peace of mind, try a breathable crib mattress, like the HALO DreamWeave. Not only is it significantly more breathable than a traditional crib mattress, but the open strand core also allows air to flow freely, which means less sweaty, more comfy sleep.
What if my Baby Only Falls Asleep on Their Stomach?
For some little ones, it is evident early on that they prefer to sleep on their stomachs. However, the AAP is very clear in their SIDS prevention recommendations that babies should only be placed on their back to sleep for the first year.
A baby sleeping face down is considered safe only if the child manages to get into the position naturally on their own. If they aren’t quite there, parents should not be placing babies in the crib on their stomachs or even their sides.
However, it’s important to remember that parenthood is all about finding what works best for you and your family, especially in that first year. During this time of growth and transition, some parents find it necessary to cradle their little ones to sleep face-down on their chest or in their laps.
That’s totally fine! It’s just important to be sure to then lay the child flat on their back once they are transferred to a crib.
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Dealing with Parental Anxiety Due to Baby Rolling in Sleep
It's completely understandable for parents to feel anxious when their baby starts to roll over in their sleep. Here are some tips on how to manage parental anxiety:
- Educate yourself: Learning about the developmental milestones that lead to a baby being able to roll over can help you understand that this is a normal part of the process. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared and less anxious.
- A baby sleeping face down is considered safe only if the child manages to get into the position naturally on their own. If they aren’t quite there, parents should not be placing babies in the crib on their stomachs or even their sides.
- Focus on creating a safe sleep environment: While rolling over can be a cause for concern, creating a safe sleep environment can help ease some of that anxiety. Follow the American Academy of Pediatrics' safe sleep guidelines, which include placing your baby on their back to sleep on a firm, flat surface and avoiding soft objects and loose bedding in the sleep area.
- Use a baby monitor: A baby monitor can be a helpful tool for parents who are worried about their baby rolling over in their sleep. Being able to check in on your baby without disturbing them can provide peace of mind.
- Practice self-care: Taking care of your own emotional and physical well-being is essential when dealing with parental anxiety. Make sure to prioritize self-care, whether it's taking a break, getting some exercise, or talking to a friend or therapist.
- Reach out for support: Talking to other parents who have gone through similar experiences can be helpful. Joining a support group or connecting with other parents online can help you feel less alone and provide a forum to share your concerns and experiences.
Remember that it's normal to feel anxious as a parent, but taking steps to manage that anxiety can help you enjoy this special time with your baby. If your anxiety is affecting your daily life, it's important to talk to your doctor or a mental health professional for support.
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