The truth about bad sleep habits in babies (and why you don’t need to panic)
If your baby only falls asleep in your arms, while feeding, or with a pacifier, you’ve probably wondered:“Am I creating bad habits?”
You’re not alone. Many parents feel pressure to “teach” their baby how to sleep “the right way.” But here’s the truth: You’re not doing it wrong. You’re not spoiling your baby. You’re not creating bad habits by meeting their needs.
In this post, I want to gently debunk some of the myths around baby sleep, especially for little ones between 0 and 2 years old, and help you feel more confident in what actually matters.
Where does this fear come from?
From books, blogs, and well-meaning advice like:
“Don’t let them fall asleep in your arms, they’ll always need it.”
“You need to teach them to self-soothe.”
“You’re creating a crutch!”
But here’s what we really need to remember: Babies (especially under 1 year) aren’t developmentally ready to sleep fully independently. They’re biologically wired to seek closeness, regulation, and rhythm.
What’s often labeled as a “bad habit” is actually just a normal sleep association and many of these resolve naturally over time or can be gently supported when your baby is ready.
“Bad habits” that are actually completely normal:
Here are a few things you do not need to feel guilty about:
Falling asleep while feeding
Babies often feed to sleep, it’s calming, instinctive, and efficient! Feeding and sleep are closely connected in the first year.
Contact naps
Holding your baby for naps isn’t spoiling them. It’s bonding. And it often helps them sleep longer and deeper.
Rocking or motion
Using a stroller, sling, or gentle rocking? Totally normal. Motion mimics the womb and is soothing.
Pacifiers, music, white noise, being held
These are sleep cues, not flaws. If they’re working for now, they’re serving a purpose.
The key question is: “Is this working for me and my baby right now?”
If yes, no need to change anything. If not, there are ways to gently shift things without stress or pressure.
If something isn’t working, here’s where to start:
You don’t need to overhaul everything. You can start small, and I always recommend beginning with connection, not control.
Here are a few gentle changes that can help:
Track wake windows: sometimes adjusting timing makes a big difference
Start a simple, predictable routine: same steps, same order before naps and bedtime
Notice sleep cues: but don’t wait until your baby is overtired
Offer reassurance: it’s okay if your baby needs you to fall asleep
This is exactly the kind of work I do with families during 1:1 sleep support, no rigid methods, no “cry it out,” and no pressure to make changes you’re not ready for.
You’re not failing , you’re responding
Every baby is different, and every parent deserves support, not judgment.
So if you’re feeling unsure, tired, or overwhelmed, I see you. I’m here to help.
Book your free intake, I’d love to hear your story and offer some gentle guidance.
You’re doing an amazing job, one bedtime at a time.