As a mother to a newborn, your life changes, which includes your general schedule. However, much of this is true for the initial 3-4 months, and it is possible to help your baby adapt to your schedule instead of a haphazard one after she has crossed the 3 months threshold. She has already gained the ability to understand you now and she will learn from what you teach her. Bedtime schedules help babies have a healthy sleep and a steady future.
How to start?
Help her understand the difference between day and night. Days are to play, while nights are for sleeping. You can teach her this by talking to her and by keeping your house bright during the day time. In a similar way, you should keep the lights dim and talk to her less at night. This will help her understand that nights are for sleeping.
- Things to keep in mind before you start the routine
- Think of a realistic routine and make sure that you are comfortable with what you have created.
- Don’t expect your baby to follow it from day 1.
- Expect some push back from her, stay patient, and keep trying.
- Explain this to your family to help your baby follow the same in your absence.
- Consistency is the key.
The pattern
The pattern created by you will help her regulate her own clock and she will establish a sleep pattern. Your baby will be relaxed and she will know what to expect when.
Your bedtime routine could include the below few things. You could add or subtract as per your and your baby’s needs, but make sure to be consistent.
Giving her a bath – a warm bath in the evening will help relax her body.
Changing her clothes and diapers – Differentiate between her day time clothes and bedtime clothes. When you make her wear pajamas at night, she will know it is time for bed now.
Draw the curtains – This will calm her and babies feel sleepy sooner with dim lights.
Kissing her goodnight – While kissing her good, say goodnight to her and everything around her. She will understand the meaning of good night soon.
Lay down beside her crib – She will copy you. You should close your eyes and lay down. She is probably seeing you and will do the same as you
