06/10/2025
If I wanted to change how I got my baby or toddler to sleep, the first thing Iâd do is start layering sleep associations.
And even if I wasnât planning on changing a thing right now?
Iâd still start this TODAY to make any future sleep changes so much easier.
Sleep associations are anything your little one connects with going to sleep. Theyâre the sensory input cues that tell their body and brain:
âHey, itâs time to wind down & go to sleep.â
And weâre not just talking about one magical thing.
We want to layer them, across all the senses.
Think about:
Smell â your smell is likely what they are used to, so can we layer in another smell like a drop of lavender on a snuggy that is also around when getting ready to sleep?
Sound â hummung, a song, a particular phrase, white noise or a sleep playlist
Touch â A cuddly comforter (if over 7-12 months), your hand on their back, rubbing their back, bum pats...think things you can do while you hold them but also if they weren't on you as well.
Sight â visual cues like drawing curtains etc
Taste â A warm bottle or breastfeed before sleep (for the little ones), or maybe a dummy if you can use one.
The magic of layered associations? They work together.
So if you ever need to change where or how your baby falls asleep, those consistent sensory cues stay the same, and that makes the transition through removing one sleep association that is no longer wanted (and changing how your baby settles to sleep) smoother.
Itâs not about making your baby reliant on something.
Itâs about giving them a predictable rhythm that supports sleep naturally and gently, but also gives you lots of flexibility with how you navigate sleep.
Start now, even if sleepâs going well. Your future self will thank you.
Need a little more support while you change how your baby or toddler falls asleep? Your Baby Sleep Village is built to support you through this. 1 Month of support is only $45 đ¤Ż
No cry it out. No pressure to do it in a way that doesn't align with your values. Just real evidence-based answers, real support, and better sleep.