Recommended age for technique:
From birth to 3 months.

Description of technique:
Many of us use the old saying, "I slept like a baby," to describe a good night sleep, which in my book means a solid eight hours (or more!) of uninterrupted snooze time. Ironically, if you have ever watched a newborn sleep, you are probably wondering why people associate peaceful sleeping with a baby. I was surprised to discover that newborns sleep rather fitfully, and often make noises in their sleep. In fact, it's not unusual for babies to cry in their sleep. They also startle quite easily, especially if they are sleeping on their backs.

It is quite common for parents to have their child sleep with them in the same room (or sometimes in the same bed) during the first few weeks of their child's life. Parents often find this arrangement to be convenient, especially when your baby is still waking in the middle of the night for feedings. However, if you share a room with your child, you may be apt to pick him up at the first sound you hear, waking him unnecessarily. Putting your baby in his own room early on will also help him get used to his own sleep environment and will allow him to get comfortable sleeping independently.

Each family must decide for themselves when the time is right to move their baby into their own room. Remember, once your baby is two to three months old, he will become more particular about his sleep environment. If your child has grown accustomed to sleeping with you, he may very well protest loudly when you first initiate a change in his sleeping arrangements.

Other comments or suggestions:
Whenever you choose to move your baby, consistency is important. Don't confuse your child by bringing him into bed with you some nights, while insisting that he stay in his crib or bassinet other times.