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From Fussy to Fast Asleep: Coaching Families Through Soothing Bedtime Routines
Sleep challenges are one of the most common stressors families bring to therapy sessions. Whether you're supporting new parents in the NICU, navigating toddler tantrums in outpatient care, or helping overwhelmed caregivers in early intervention, bedtime often becomes a battleground. But what if there was a simple, evidence-backed strategy you could share to help babies settle faster—and help parents feel more confident?
Gentle massage may be the answer. Studies show that consistent bedtime routines that incorporate touch can significantly improve infant sleep patterns, reduce stress, and support parent-child bonding (Field, 2019). When paired with coaching strategies that meet families where they are, massage becomes more than a soothing gesture—it becomes a tool for transformation.
Why Massage Helps Babies Sleep
Massage activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps the body shift from a state of alertness to relaxation. This shift is essential for sleep, especially in infants who often struggle with regulation. The act of gentle, rhythmic stroking helps lower cortisol levels, regulate breathing, and signal to the baby that it's safe to rest (Ferber, 2016).
And it’s not just the baby who benefits. Parents who engage in regular massage routines report less stress, improved connection with their child, and more confidence in their role during bedtime (Underdown et al., 2013).
What Providers Can Do
Swap out traditional baby wipes for soft cotton cloths dampened with cool water. This alternative is gentle on your baby’s delicate skin and can help reduce potential irritation caused by standard wipes. It’s a simple change that can make a big difference in your baby’s comfort.
In the From Fussy to Fast Asleep guide, we outline four therapist-approved coaching strategies that can be used immediately in sessions:
1. Read the Sleep Cues
Most parents miss the early signs of fatigue, pushing through until the child is overstimulated and overtired. Coaching them to recognize cues like yawning, rubbing eyes, or disengaging from their environment can help prevent meltdowns before they begin.
2. Use Massage as a Pre-Sleep Cue
When massage is used consistently before naps or bedtime, babies begin to associate those strokes with calming down. A simple 3-minute leg massage with dim lighting and soft music can become a powerful signal that it’s time to rest.
3. Make It a Team Effort
Encouraging both caregivers to participate in the bedtime routine can help reduce stress, increase consistency, and build stronger relationships. Whether they alternate roles or perform routines together, the shared ritual can offer a sense of calm and connection for everyone involved.
4. Equip Families with Resources They’ll Actually Use
Families are more likely to follow through when they have a clear, visual reference. That’s why we include a printable handout in the guide with bedtime tips, sleep cues, and a QR code to a video demonstration of a calming leg massage stroke.
Help Families Sleep Better—Starting Today
When providers combine evidence-based techniques with supportive coaching, bedtime doesn’t have to be a struggle. If you’re ready to help families create calmer nights and stronger routines, download your free copy of From Fussy to Fast Asleep below.
👉 Click here to get your free guide
References:
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Field, T. (2019). Infant massage therapy research review. Infant Behavior and Development, 55, 81–89.
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Ferber, R. (2016). Solve Your Child’s Sleep Problems. New York: Touchstone.
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Underdown, A., Barlow, J., Chung, V., & Stewart-Brown, S. (2013). Massage intervention for promoting mental and physical health in infants under six months. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (4).
