Supported Naps Vs Crib Naps

What’s Best for My Baby? Supported Naps Vs Crib Naps

We all want the best for our children and improved sleep will not only help your child thrive but will also help you navigate motherhood too! 

I receive lots of questions regarding supported naps vs crib naps, so let’s break it down. 

What is a supported nap?

A supported nap includes contact naps, naps in a carrier/stroller or even in the car. Babies will often fall asleep more easily with motion and/or being in very close proximity with their primary caregivers. Especially in the first year, many babies prefer a supported nap.

What is a crib nap?

A crib nap is when your baby can sleep independently in their crib…yes, I know, a crib nap is exactly as it sounds ☺  

My recommendation…

As a sleep coach, it might come as a surprise that I don’t have a preference for supported or crib naps. Sleep is sleep and it doesn’t matter where it happens (hallelujah!). If your baby sleeps well on the go, then I always encourage parents to embrace supported naps.

However, some highly sensitive babies may not sleep well on the go and need a quiet, dark environment to fall and stay asleep, so a crib nap will be a better option.

There is no one way. There is no right way. The best thing to do is what works best for your little one.

Use their naps to benefit you

If your baby loves a supported nap, use this time to run some errands, do drop off/pick up, go for a walk, catch up with friends, etc. but know that as babies grow and develop, they may sleep less when on the go. 

If you have a baby that thrives on crib naps, this will give you hands-free time to rest, shower, work, spend 1:1 time with other children, etc.

Both supported and crib naps have their advantages, so do what works best for you and your baby.