Can Rubbing a Baby's Head Help Them Sleep?

Are you a first-time mum? Probably you have heard it said that rubbing your baby's head will make the baby sleep. If you are wondering whether this is true then you are not alone. You might have heard other parents swear by it, but you are sceptical about it. Well, the short answer is yes, it can.  Let's look into why children tend to fall asleep when someone softly rubs their heads.

Why Rubbing Your Baby's Head Helps Them Sleep

Babies are comforted by touch. When you gently rub your baby's head, it creates a calming and soothing sensation for them. Think about how relaxing a head massage feels to you. It is the same for your baby, on a much smaller scale. This gentle touch helps to calm their nervous system, making it easier for them to relax and fall asleep.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Nursing found that touch therapy, like gentle stroking or rubbing, can significantly improve sleep in infants. Babies who received this kind of soothing touch fell asleep faster and slept longer than those who didn't receive it. The researchers concluded that this simple method can be a powerful tool in promoting better sleep for babies. 

Babies thrive on routine. If you include rubbing your baby's head as part of their bedtime ritual, they'll start associating it with sleep. Over time, this simple act can become a strong sleep cue, signaling your baby that it's time to wind down. This association can make bedtime easier and help your baby fall asleep more quickly.

There's also a scientific explanation behind the calming effect of touch. Gentle rubbing can stimulate the release of oxytocin, often called the "love hormone." Oxytocin promotes feelings of security and relaxation, both of which are essential for good sleep. For your baby, this means feeling safe and comforted, which makes falling asleep much easier.

Tips for Effective Head Rubbing

When you rub your baby's head, keep it gentle and rhythmic. Use your fingertips to softly stroke in a circular motion or gently across your scalp. You can also try this when your baby is already in their crib, so they learn to associate the crib with comfort and sleep.

If your baby seems fussy or overstimulated, this technique can be particularly helpful. The repetitive motion helps them focus on the soothing sensation rather than whatever might be causing their discomfort or overstimulation.

An Alternative Method: White Noise Machines

Another effective way to help your baby sleep is by using a white noise machine. These devices create soothing background sounds that mimic the comforting noises your baby hears in the womb. The consistent hum of white noise can help mask sudden household sounds that might disturb your baby's sleep, like a dog barking or a door closing.

White noise machines are easy to use. Simply turn it on, adjust the volume, and let it play throughout the night or during nap time. Unlike methods that require constant attention, a white noise machine works on its own, giving you a much-needed break. It's portable too, so you can use it at home, in the car, or while travelling.

If you are looking for a reliable and effortless way to improve your baby's sleep, a white noise machine is a great option.

Conclusion

So, mom, if you're looking for a simple, loving way to help your baby sleep, try rubbing their head. It's a gentle, natural method that can work wonders. Plus, it's backed by research that shows how effective touch can be in promoting better sleep. Remember, every baby is different, so it's all about finding what works best for your little one. If rubbing your baby's head does not work for your child then consider alternatives such as using a white noise machine.  On Amazon, these white noise machines are flying off the shelves like hotcakes and many parents swear by them.