Even if you don’t want to follow a strict routine, following the same steps at bedtime will help your baby to understand that it’s time to sleep (hopefully!) and make sure everyone gets their rest
Establishing an effective sleep routine for both mama and baby is the first step to sleep success and the sooner you develop this the better. From as young as 6-8 weeks, following a set routine every night will pay dividends and ensure no more nightly sleep sagas!
Babies love routine and consistency and will feel relaxed knowing what is coming next. An efficient bedtime routine is also an incredibly special time to bond with your baby and set aside this time for just you and your little one with no interruptions.
Here we bring you some tried and tested techniques to help you enjoy a restful nights sleep feeling fresh and ready for the day, and not at all tired-and-tested!
Agree on a time to begin your bedtime routine and stick to it. Allow yourself enough time to get through your ritual in a relaxed manner and keep it simple for both of you. Doing the same things and the same time in the same order help your baby to know when it is time for some shut-eye. Why not try a relaxing bath, followed by a mini-massage, then pyjamas on and a bedtime story or a lullaby and a snuggle?
Clevamama shampoo rinse cup, AED 39 via mumzworld
Boon Naked Baby bathtub, AED 295 via mumzworld
You can begin your sleep ritual in the bathroom or living room but make sure to end it in your baby’s bedroom or the place they sleep. This gives your baby a clear message as part of their daily routine and they will learn that this is a nice place to unwind and relax and not somewhere they are banished to for sleep.
Clevamama Clevafoam Baby Pillow, AED 93.45 via mumzworld
Sleepyhead Deluxe, AED 895 via mumzworld
Chicco Next 2 Me Co-Sleeping Crib, AED 967.05 via mumzworld
Ensure a calm and quiet atmosphere for your baby an hour before bedtime. Swap tickles for cuddles and a bath or story instead of toys that over stimulate and excite. Keep the bedroom as dark and quiet as possible or use a small night light or relaxing light show to help set a relaxing scene in preparation for sleep.
A Lovely Little Company Projector Lamp, AED 148.63 via Mumzworld
Pabobo Stars Projector Teddy With Music, AED 240.45 via Mumzworld
Believe it or not, if your little one isn’t napping enough during the day, it may be harder for them to fall asleep at night. Try and make sure you get your baby down for a nap as soon as they begin to yawn and you can see those heavy eyes! Staying consistent with nap times too will result in one happy mama and a happy baby. Remember that most babies need two or three naps a day and at least one nap for toddlers too – but not too close to bedtime or you may have a wide awake child on your hands to contend with!
Clevamama Foldable Travel Cot Mattress, AED 261.45 via Mumzworld
Clevamama Pod PLay Arch via clevamama.com
Hero image sourced via Instagram handle of lynzyandco.
