Can My Baby Sleep in a DockATot?
BY Jade Limanni, Master Sleep Consultant
Are you a parent who has heard about the DockATot, a popular baby product that has gained widespread recognition in recent years? As with any popular product, it's common to have questions and concerns, particularly when it comes to something as important as sleep. As a pediatric sleep consultant, I frequently receive inquiries from clients regarding the use of the DockATot. In this post, I address these common questions and clear up any confusion surrounding this product. So, whether you're a new parent or a seasoned caregiver, read on to learn more about the DockATot and its recommended use.
The DockATot became a very popular baby product within the last few years. It’s often one of the most registered for items, but the DockATot is not recommended for unsupervised sleep.
The Truth About the DockATot
Although they have utilized impressive marketing tactics, such as showcasing a snugly baby co-sleeping beside a parent or exhibiting the DockATot in a crib, giving the impression that babies are experiencing exceptional sleep, the company has explicitly stated that they do not endorse the use of their product for overnight sleep.
This means that you can use the DockATot for supervised sleep only. For example while your baby is taking a nap in the living room - somewhere where you are keeping an eye on your child.
It is not ok to use a DockATot anytime your child is unsupervised. This comes directly from the manufacturer.
If you go to the DockATot website they too list that it is not recommended for overnight sleep, crib sharing, or co-sleeping.
It was interesting to me that they used large marketing tactics to show otherwise. It was very misleading.
A Pediatric Sleep Guide’s Opinion on the DockATot
As a professional sleep consultant, I do not find them to be worth it when it comes to an investment in your child’s sleep.
If it’s a product you’re not going to be able to use for overnight sleep, you’re not going to be able to use it a lot in general. You would be much better served getting a nice bassinet to be a safe space for your baby to sleep in.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the first year of life that your child sleeps :
On THEIR back
on a flat, firm, Mattress with tight fitting sheets
bassinet or crib free of blankets, bumpers, toys or other objects
Recommended Products Instead of the DockATot
You would be better off to invest you money in these two products below:
THE SNOO
The SNOO is great product to invest in.
You can check out one of our previous blog posts on our full take on this product.
OUR NEWBORN PLAN
With the plan we give you really great sleep shaping tips and tricks that can help you lay the healthy foundation for sleep for you and your child.
You can view more details here.
We Are Here to Help!
If you're still struggling with your baby's sleep, feel free to set up a complimentary discovery call with either myself or someone on the Kelly Murray Sleep Squad and we would love to chat with you more about other options for your newborn, safe sleeping habits, and how we can help get you and your child better nights sleep.
All team members have completed training with Kelly and have learned the Murray Method. Kelly continues to support, guide and oversee the Sleep Squad as they work with the families who trust in us. This way, all clients are able to experience the same amazing results (and lots and lots of sleep).
Sweet Dreams…
Kelly Murray is a certified sleep coach and an award-winning pediatric sleep consultant based in Chicago offering sleep coaching services nationwide.
