Recommended age for technique:
From birth and up.

Description of technique:
Although newborns are less in tune with their surroundings, it doesn't take long for babies to become aware of your presence and their environment. Just as most adults would have trouble sleeping in a bright and noisy room, babies are even more sensitive to stimulus. There are many ways that you can "set the stage" for sleep.

Dimming the lights is always a good idea since babies eyes are particularly sensitive. Keep in mind that for many months your baby heard the sound of your heart beating. Living outside the womb is a big adjustment. Sounds that imitate the uterus are soothing for infants and are often useful in lulling a baby to sleep. The hum of a fan or the sound of the dryer running may do the trick. Sound machines with various background noises such as the ocean roaring or the pitter-patter of rain may also come in handy and will help you save electricity!