DockATot is a popular product that allows babies to sleep, play, and relax while in an upright position. However, there comes a time when babies outgrow their DockATot. If you’re wondering how to transition your baby out of DockATot into her crib, here’s what you need to know!
What is a DockATot?
For those of you who don’t know, the DockATot is a multi-functional item that can be used as a baby lounger and a play mat. It was created to encourage healthy development in children of all ages, from newborns up to 36 months.
The DockATot is made of organic cotton and uses no flame retardants or lead paint. It also meets the international safety standards for phthalates, lead, and bisphenol A (BPA), which are toxic chemicals found in many other products.
Here’s how it looks (with an adorable baby in it):
Is the DockATot safe for my baby to sleep in?
The DockATot is a great device for wake time activities, such as tummy time, diaper change, lounging, and play. It’s appropriate for all kinds of activities as long as you keep an eye on your little one.
But when it comes to sleep, the DockATot loses its function. All the factors that make it a snuggly and comfy place for waketime activities make it unsafe for sleep. Parents might be disappointed to hear that the soft, round sides of the DockaTot put babies at risk of suffocation.
According to the American Association of Pediatricians (AAP), a flat and empty surface containing no blankets, bumpers, or stuffed animals is the safest environment for a baby.
Products including cribs, bassinets, and play yards are the only products that meet the standards for safe baby sleep. Loungers, nappers, infant seats, strollers, or sleepers are not approved for baby sleep.
When is it time to transition your baby out of DockATot?
If your baby can move her arms, legs, and head freely, it’s time to transition her out of the DockATot. Most babies need more support when they are 4-6 months old, so this is when you can start looking at a crib. There are options such as Babyfit Crib for DockATot, which help with transitioning from a DockATot to a crib.
Tips for how to transition your baby out of DockATot to Crib
Here are some proven tips on how to transition your baby out of DockATot to the crib:
- Get your baby on a consistent schedule. Make sure she wakes up, takes her naps, and goes to sleep at night at the same time.
- Do what you usually do to get her to fall asleep at naptime and bedtime, regardless if that means falling asleep in the DockATot.
- After a week, try putting her down in her crib instead. Her body will be expecting sleep, so she’ll nod off more easily.
- If your baby loves the cosiness of a swaddle, I recommend you use a swaddle transition blanket.
- If she wakes up from her sleep, get her back to sleep using soothing techniques or a feeding if needed.
- If your baby is not yet showing signs of rolling, keep her swaddled in the crib. If your baby is showing signs of rolling, it’s also time to transition out of the swaddle.
- Be patient and don’t rush things. Transitions take time, and safe sleep is important.
What to do with the DockATot after baby has outgrown it
You can either donate your DockATot to a hospital or consignment shop. We suggest consigning your DockATot to your local consignment shop because they will be more likely to find a buyer for it. If you’re still unsure, check with the Department of Baby & Child Safety and Protection to see if they can sell it on consignment.
To sum up
And that’s how you can transition your baby out of DockATot without any loss of sleep at night!
I think the DockATot is an amazing product that can be great for your tummy time sessions. Although it is unsafe for baby sleep, it still works wonders for supervised lounging, chilling, and playtime.
Did coming out of a sleep product derailed your great little sleeper? We can help! An experienced sleep trainer can make the process easier for both the parent and the child. Connect with us today and get a personalized plan for your baby. I’ll be there to guide you every step of the way.