Baby Care Resources
When babies are born we expect a certain amount of sleep and rest depravity. We all know that the new baby is going to be up every couple of hours for feedings and diaper changing. How do you develop a regular routine for you and the new baby that allows you to complete your normal everyday tasks as well as get enough sleep and rest?
Experiment. We all have a fairly regular daily routine that we follow before a new baby arrives, such as what time we get up each morning and what time we go to bed each night. Try to incorporate the baby’s routine into the routine that you already have established. If you usually go to bed at 10:00 at night, try beginning baby’s bedtime preparation around 9:00. Make sure that the baby has been fed, bathed, and changed so that you are able to lay them down in their crib by 10:00. Create a checklist of all the things that need to be done before bedtime each night to help you create and stick to a bedtime routine.
Create a peaceful and relaxing sleeping environment to make it easier for them to fall asleep. You can try playing some soft lullaby music and using a nightlight. You can also try rocking them for a short while before placing them in their crib. New babies often fall asleep faster and sleep for longer periods of time if they are relaxed and calm.
Allow yourself an ample amount of time each morning to get showered and dressed before waking up the new baby. For example, if it takes you one hour to get ready each morning then set the baby’s wake-up time one hour later than yours. Having time to yourself is very important. New baby’s have very keen senses and can tell if you are tense and on edge, and they react to what you are feeling. If you are nervous or anxious then they will become nervous and anxious and it will disrupt the routine you are trying to create for them.
Lastly, be consistent. Once you find a routine or schedule that works for you and the new baby, stick to it! Life will be much easier once you and the new baby settle into a regular routine, and both of you will be more calm and relaxed.