Thursday, January 8, 2009

Establish a sleep routine

Sleep deprivation is natural for parents during the first months of a baby's life. Say from birth to 3months. Babies are usually able to stick to a routine from them onwards.There are many different books out there that talk about how to establish a sleeping routine especially at night.

Personally, I think the fastest way to establish one is to do it and let the baby cry. You know crying won't hurt your baby, in fact, your baby came into the world crying which is why you received congratulations. So as long as you know your baby is not ill, has been fed and has a clean nappy, wrap him and leave him in his cot to sleep and let him cry until he sleeps. You may need to do this for a few days before it sticks.

However difficult it is for you to listen to your child's cries, remember that setting a routine now will help you overall as a parent. As your child grows older, bedtime will remain a continous thing that you will have to stay on top of. You are the parent so be one by taking charge. You can!

Tip: Offer a feed to your baby and bathe him nearer bedtime so that he is in sleep mode. You may also play lullabies in his room. Stick to the same process daily.