For naps and bedtime, it’s all about routine.
With naps it’s good to have a short routine, 5 to 15 minutes is all you need – nap-time should be a bit different from the night-time routine, so your baby can learn to distinguish between the two. Some babies nap a longer time but then are up at night.
For the short morning or afternoon nap start by:
- nursing, or feeding the baby
- check for a dry diaper
- take off shoes and any restrictive clothing
- find the favorite stuffed toy or blanket
- play a special song
The five things above should be all it takes to get your baby to settle. Of course a regular naptime is helpful in triggering the natural rhythm. Many babies and toddlers think that they are going to be missing something when they go down for a nap. All family members should help with their own quiet time at naptime.
At night the stakes are higher because you need time with other family members, yourself included. You want your baby to stay asleep for the whole night, or at least most of the night.
So begin with the all important:
- bath and playtime ( laughter is good exercise )
- massage your baby using Mother’s Special Blend (see earlier , our blog on baby massage)
- pajamas that are the right size and weight
- sing, read a story or play a different series of nighttime tunes
Natural and simple is always best and wherever you can, simplify. A baby grows fast and things are always changing, try to pay attention to how special these moments are. Always follow your health care providers advice when it comes to you and your baby.
All the best for your nesting adventure,
Mother’s Special Blend