How do I help my baby fall asleep without tears?

Another day, another baby who, very reasonably, just wants snuggles and closeness for every nap, and all night long. Babies just aren't born knowing how to fall asleep. They can sleep of course, but falling asleep is another matter. Here's a step by step to help your baby get to peaceful, independent sleep. 1) For safe sleep practices, we're putting baby in a bassinet or crib, in the bedroom where you sleep if possible. Baby needs to be on their back. The room temp should be about 68-72 degrees. There should be nothing in the crib except baby, and pacifier if using. You can swaddle baby until they can roll over on their own, or use a sleep sack after they can roll. Baby might be helped with a pacifier, but if they don't need it, or if you can use it only for calming, that's ideal as there's no way to keep that paci in their mouth while they're asleep - it pops right out when baby starts to relax and baby pops right awake! 2) Getting ready for sleep. For all sleep sessions, following a simple routine will help baby know it's nearly time to sleep. I recommend a feeding, getting a good burp, a short book (a little Goodnight Moon anyone?) and then a diaper change and into the swaddle or sleep sack. Then a rocking or bouncing session with your favorite lullaby or hum, or even a recording is fine as well. 3) As baby is getting droopy eyed, and body is nice and relaxed, lay them down by putting their feet down on the bed, and then laying them back until flat on the bed. Going from your warm hug to a cold bed is often challenging for baby to stay calm through, so go slowly, and stay as calm as you can as well. 4) Hopefully baby will stay calm, and drowsy as you do this. If they do, slowly back away and leave the room. Having a video monitor to watch them can be very helpful as it will help you know if your baby is wide awake and calm, or actually asleep - this helps with awake cycle times. 5) If baby starts to stir, wait. Don't rush to the rescue! They need an opportunity just like you do, to settle into bed and get comfortable. 6) If baby starts to cry, or get very alert acting, step in. Do the minimum you can to help baby settle. A) A shushing sound (lots of babies love white noise machines!) Then if that isn't helping add in B) A hand on their chest. If that's not enough, try C) Patting them on the chest or bum. A rhythmic heartbeat pat is very nice. If that's not working go ahead and D) Try their pacifier, if they're using one. IF still getting more upset, or crying, E) Pick up baby. Go back to step 3 above and start fresh. And... Repeat. I know it's tedious, frustrating possibly and feels like all you do all day is try to help this baby fall asleep! The first nap of the morning and going to sleep at night are usually the best times to practice this, if you feel like you can only do one nap a day with this style at first, do the first morning nap. What is the goal? A baby who knows sleep is coming and doesn't get agitated about it. A baby who stays calm in bed because it's a peaceful place to be. A baby who trusts that someone is there to help them if they need it. And ultimately, a baby who learns to fall asleep peacefully and alone, and who knows what to do when they wake up and are still tired. I wish you patience and perseverance, and sweet dreams.