As adults we all have our nightly routines to help us sleep. Some of us
enjoy a long, hot soak in the tub, others read before going to sleep, have a
cup of cocoa and a snack or spend time enjoying a hobby. It's routine and it
tells our bodies to prepare for sleep. Your baby can also benefit from a
nightly routine. Just as your routine sends silent signals to your body so
will an established routine for your baby.
Keep It Simple
The first thing to keep in mind when preparing a nighttime routine for your
little one is to keep it simple. If it gets too long and drug out then it
can have the opposite effect of what you want.
Bathtime for Baby
Warm baths help everyone relax and a baby is no different. Incorporating a
nightly bath into your baby's evening schedule is not only relaxing but a
fun way to spend time with him. There are herbal baby baths that you can
purchase that induce sleep and relaxation.
Snuggle Time Together
After you bath the baby and he has been fed then make it snuggle time. A
rocker is perfect for this. You might read a book to your baby before
cuddling him in a soft blanket. No baby is to young to be read to by mom or
dad. If you plan on rocking the baby to sleep make sure he is sound asleep
before laying him down. Playing soft music while rocking your baby can help
create a quiet sleep atmosphere as well. You might want to consider having
soft lullaby music playing in the baby's room for when he is put into bed.
Give Your Baby a Massage
Massages are so relaxing and gentle massage techniques can work on your baby
too. Research some basic massage methods for infants and then practice on
your little one. Gentle is the key here. He may object at first but you may
find it's both yours and his favorite time of evening.
Keep At It
Once you have decided on a good routine for you and your baby stick with it.
It can take a week or more before you can determine what needs changed.
Routine and structure is wonderful for babies and establishing a nightly
routine can make your baby's bedtime less hassle and more pleasant for both
of you.