How do I stop my baby from only sleeping on me?

Start by making the crib/bassinet feel as familiar and safe as possible, then fade your help slowly.

What to try:

• Use a flat, firm mattress with only a fitted sheet; no pillows, blankets, bumpers, or toys.
• Keep the room dark and use white noise if it helps.
• Do a short, repeatable routine: feed, burp, diaper change, swaddle if not rolling or a sleep sack if rolling, then gentle rocking.
• Put baby down sleepy, not fully asleep if you can.
• Transfer slowly, feet/bottom first, then shoulders and head.
• Keep a hand on their chest or tummy for a moment after laying them down.
• Practice one sleep at a time, and try before baby gets overtired.
• If needed, “rescue” the nap so they don’t get exhausted.

To reduce contact over time:

• Rock less before putting down.
• Hold until drowsy instead of fully asleep.
• Soothe in the crib with a hand on the chest or gentle shushing.
• Pick up only if needed, then try again.

What’s normal: newborns often want contact sleep. Formal sleep training is usually better after about 4 months.

Safety: don’t use a heating pad or hot water bottle in the crib. If this is new or baby seems uncomfortable lying flat, check with your pediatrician.