By: Sarah Bossio, Certified Pediatric Sleep Expert
Your baby is rolling in the crib—woohoo! It's an exciting milestone, but let’s be honest, it can also feel a bit nerve-wracking. For months, you’ve been told to always put your baby on their back to sleep. Now, suddenly, they’re flipping themselves over, turning on their side, or even onto their belly, living their best rolling life—what are you supposed to do?
If you’re feeling confused or even a bit panicked (because, hello, safe sleep guidelines like the back-to-sleep campaign are drilled into our heads!), don’t worry. I’ve got all the tips and tricks to help you handle this milestone like a pro.
By the end of this blog, you’ll feel confident, your baby will be cozy in their crib, and maybe—just maybe—you’ll get some longer stretches of sleep too. Let’s dive in!
Understanding the Rolling Milestone
The first big "ta-da!" moment for your baby is when they roll over. Don't panic if your infant chooses to do things their own way; most babies reach this milestone between the ages of 4 and 6 months. Every infant has their own schedule, and that's perfectly acceptable. Increased belly strength, attempts to push up during tummy time, and side-swimming during play are some indicators that your baby is ready to roll.
This is significant since rolling is an indication that your baby's muscles are strengthening and their coordination is improving, in addition to being adorable. Consider it their baby's exercise. This new trick indicates that they're ready to investigate more of their surroundings, whether they're rolling from back to belly, belly to back, or simply turning over to their side while they sleep. Indeed, they might practice all night long since they are so eager about it!
You can tell how much your baby loves this new skill if you've ever caught them mid-roll with that "Look, Mom! I'm doing it!" expression. So, hold on tight—this rolling period is all about learning, growing, and a little turbulence, but in a good way. Additionally, as rolling newborns require greater room to move around safely, it may indicate that it's time to switch from a cradle to a crib.
Safety First: The Back-to-Sleep Campaign
For months, you’ve probably been in full “back-to-sleep” mode, making sure your little one is safely snoozing on their back. It’s drilled into us from day one—because it’s super important for reducing the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). But now, with your baby rolling like a pro, it’s like, “Wait...what now?”
Here’s the thing: it’s totally normal to feel a mix of emotions right now. On one hand, you’re proud of your baby’s big milestone. On the other hand, you might feel a little panic when they flip onto their belly or side in the crib. Should you roll them back? Are they okay? Are you going to spend all night playing “rolling baby pong” in and out of their room? (Spoiler: you don’t have to!)
This phase is all about finding a balance between their newfound skills and their safety. Remember, this is a natural part of their development. Whether it’s a newborn rolling over, turning on their side, or figuring out their comfy spot, they’re learning how to get comfortable in their own way. Deep breath—you’ve got this, and so does your baby. Let’s talk about how to handle these nighttime gymnastics while following safe sleep guidelines.
What To Do When Rolling Begins
The secret to surviving the rolling phase? Practice, practice, practice—during the day, that is. Babies love showing off their new skills, and the more they get to roll when the sun’s up, the less they’ll feel the need to practice all night long. Tummy time is your best friend right now! It’s not just about building strength; it’s about giving your little one the confidence to roll both ways—back to belly and belly to back. The goal? Help them master the full rolling routine so they don’t get stuck and wake up feeling grumpy (because nobody likes a middle-of-the-night tantrum).
Another important step: say goodbye to swaddles. As soon as your baby starts rolling, it’s time to ditch the cozy wraps or any transitional swaddles like the Magic Merlin. They need free movement to roll safely and find their comfy spot in the crib. Sure, it might feel like the end of an era, but think of it as the beginning of your baby’s rolling adventures—safely and confidently. Keep those daytime sessions rolling (pun intended), and you’ll be one step closer to smoother nights!
Nighttime Adjustments
Nighttime rolling can feel like a whole new adventure, but don’t worry—it’s manageable! According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), if your baby can roll both ways (back to belly and belly to back), you can let them stay on their belly if that’s where they roll on their own. That’s right—no need to panic and flip them over every five minutes. They’ve got this!
That said, a little reassurance can go a long way—for both of you. Stay close by during those early nights to monitor how they’re adjusting. If they seem upset or startled, you can rub their back or offer some soothing words to calm them down. It’s all about giving them the space and support to get comfy.
If your newborn rolls to their side or an infant rolls onto their belly, it might also be time to swap the cradle for a crib. Rolling babies need extra room to explore, and a crib gives them plenty of safe space to find their sweet spot. And remember, crib safety is key! Keep it free of pillows, blankets, stuffed animals, or anything else that could pose a risk.
Addressing Sleep Disruptions
Suddenly, sleep seems like a faraway memory as your infant is rolling around at night. What's happening? Babies are, after all, amusing little people. Even at two in the morning, they enjoy honing their new abilities! Their new party trick, rolling, is something they simply adore. The caveat is that kids may wake up feeling a little taken aback, perplexed, or even irritated when they discover they are on their stomach. (Cue the fussing at midnight!)
Fortunately, this is only a phase. Allow them time and space to come to their own conclusions. With a little perseverance, kids will eventually grow used to this new sleeping pattern. During this adjustment, there may likely be a few wake-ups, but encourage them to self-soothe when they can rather than jumping in every time. While a gentle back rub or soothing phrase can help them relax, if at all possible, let them figure things out on their own.
Benefits of Belly-Sleeping
It may surprise you to learn that belly-sleeping can improve your baby's quality of sleep. Many babies find this position to be very comfortable once they get used to it. Like an inbuilt baby spa, the light pressure on their abdomen can help soothe their nervous system. It's grounding, calming, and just what they need to unwind.
The best aspect is that extended periods of sleep may soon be possible! Some newborns find that belly-sleeping is so comfortable that they fall asleep for longer amounts of time. They are better rested, and you may finally have the opportunity to sleep well as well.
When to Call Your Pediatrician
It's wise to consult your physician if you have any questions regarding all of this rolling nonsense. They are the people you turn to when you need comfort and guidance specific to your baby's developmental stages. Your concerns can be allayed with a brief call to the nurse's line or a conversation at your child's upcoming check-up.
One crucial question to consider is whether it's acceptable to let your infant sleep on their stomach now that they can roll over on their own. Getting the expert thumbs-up helps ease your anxiety, but most pediatricians will say it's okay as long as your kid can roll both ways (back to belly and belly to back).
Final Thoughts
The milestone of rolling over is so thrilling because it shows that your baby is getting stronger, more inquisitive, and prepared to explore the world. At first, it may seem a bit overwhelming, but keep in mind that this is a normal and significant stage in their growth. Both you and your child are capable!
I'm available to help if you need further assistance or have any questions throughout this stage. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comment below! Check out my group and one-on-one coaching alternatives if you want more individualized advice. We can work together to develop a strategy that benefits your family.
For more advice on how to improve your baby's (and your own!) sleep, don't forget to subscribe to my Youtube channel for more videos that accompany these blog posts!. Thank you for joining me on this rolling adventure, and have a sweet dream.
Don't forget to subscribe to my Youtube channel for more videos that accompany these blog posts! I share tips, tricks, and advice for managing sleep regressions and more.
Did you know? I also host a weekly Q&A on my Instagram. Tune in or send me a DM on the 'gram!
I work with families one-on-one all the time who are experiencing issues with their babies' naps, overnight sleep, and more. If this sounds like you, please book a 15-minute sleep assessment call just so I can understand a little bit more about your child's sleep and then explain ways that I can work one-on-one with you to get it in order.
May your coffee be warm,
Sarah
Sarah is a Certified Pediatric Sleep Expert based in the NY/NJ Tri-State area and has helped over 500 families worldwide get their sleep back on track.
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