Dear All, My 12 month kid is still sleeping in the traditional cradle only (Cotton dhoti hooked in the roof) and we tried our best to change this habit to sleep in the bed but couldn't. We couldn't able to travel anywhere due to our kid's habit because there is no hook in the hotel roof. We bought bassinet but still our kid prefers the cotton dhoti cradle only. Could any one suggest us with any info about carry on hook or similar type instrument to hook the cradle? So that we can carry along with us and hook the cradle in the hotel. Thanks in advance. Minnu K replied. Hi,

Sorry I did not complete my prev message.
Actually my baby's cradle habit was partly my fault :-) because it was very easy to put her to sleep that way.
So what I did was to take apart the cradle (it was an automatic swing from Fisher-Price, not the cloth cradle) so that I could not use that again. Then I covered it up with a sheet so my baby wouldn't see it. First couple of days it was frustrating at times, but then she got used to sleeping on the crib or on our bed. Still have to rock her or hold her to get her to sleep, but the cradle is definitely out!

Good luck!

Minnu K replied. Hi,

I had faced a similar problem with my 7 month old. Initially, try making your baby sleep without cradle during the day time. Once that is ok, start with the night.

Roopa replied. Well, though i should be suggesting you on doing away with the cradle habit for the kid at this age, but i m suggesting u wht u hv asked for since i understand your problem. At least you wd be able to go on outings by the time u train ur baby to sleep without cradle!!

A variety of cradles (paalna in hindi) are available in markets these days. Look for the \" foldable\" ones. They typically come in metal/steel. They can be used for travel by dis-assembling them.

Now what u can do is, Not use the cradle/palna, but use its metallic frame only. It has hooks to hang the paanla, u remove the cradle and hang your cloth-cradle instead.

This way, all u wd be carrying in the metal frame, that too is folded and easy for travel. It is specially made for babies so is robust too.

The metal frame looks something like this : imagine two inverted 'V' .... joined by a long metal rod at the upper ends. But - The cradle will b low to the ground.

Try looking for it in toys shops with reasonable prices (these are mostly made locally). I had got one for mere 400 Rs so it doesnt pinch to do away with the metal cradle and use frame.

quick tip for the baby training - when the baby is fast asleep, take it out from cradle and put close to mother. Try this slowly without forcing the baby. This wd go for sm days. May be some trbl for u, but see if u want to try.

hope this helps
cheers
Roopa