How do you make a baby take a nap?

Instructions

1. • 1

     Fresh Air.

     Going for a long walk with the baby stroller is usually the best trick for all infants. Make sure the stroller is positioned so the baby does NOT face you. You may be too exciting for the baby.

   • 2

     Exercise.

     Get that baby jumping. If you have a Jumperoo, wonderful. If not, just help the baby jump up and down with your hands. (this may kill your back) Exercise will exhaust the baby and he/she will hopefully fall asleep.

   • 3

     Fill his/her tummy.

     A hungry baby will not sleep. Nursing is a great trick for those nursing. For those not nursing, a warm bottle is very good, while you hold the baby very close to you.

     You may also use cereal mixed with his/her favorite fruit. Think of Thanksgiving dinner, doesn't that always put you to sleep?

   • 4

     Singing.

     Sing your baby to sleep. Rock the baby and sing your favorite songs. It doesn't have to be a lullaby song. Any song will do but try not to get them too excited or agitated. Marilyn Manson is probably not a good choice.

   • 5

     Teething Issues.

     If your baby is teething, it will be very difficult for him/her to fall asleep. Try all natural teething drops to ease the pain.

     see the following link for more teething info:

   • 6

     Dancing.

     You, not the baby. Hold the baby and slowly dance around a low lit room. Think slow dancing if you are having trouble.

   • 7

     Massage and Tummy Rubs.

     Both are an Excellent way to relax a tense baby. Use a little lotion or oil and rub allover. Its good for both of you to have a little skin on skin contact.

   • 8

     White noise.

     A sound machine or simple radio static can calm even the crankiest of babies. This works great with colic and was a life saver for me. If your baby is really screaming and is over tired, try a hair dryer (not blowing on the baby) or a vacuum for noise.

   • 9

     Routine!

     Yes, babies love routine most of all. Whatever it is you are doing to get your baby to take a nap, you will have to do it over and over again, so I recommend doing the least troublesome for you.

   • 10

     The one most parents dislike the most and that's why I saved it for last:

     Just put the baby down in the crib and let him or her cry it out. After a few days or even a week of this, "most" babies will get the point and will fall asleep on their own. The key to doing this right is to do it at the same time every day, not too early and not too late. I also recommend you go in and check on the baby and be sure to give some hugs, kisses or pats on the butt to let them know its all ok.

     Remember, I said this works for most kids, not all. If you feel your baby is flipping out with this trick after several days of this, stop. This advice isn't meant to torture your baby. It is meant to teach your baby to fall asleep on their own. You can try this again at a later date when they are ready for it.