Written by Toni – resident Baby Nurse at Choice Pharmacy
Parents may choose to not follow a routine but a simple routine can help to feel more organised and in control.
Keeping in mind that flexibility is the key and not feeling overwhelmed when the day doesn’t go to plan.
NEWBORNS
A newborn’s routine is based on four factors:-
1. SLEEP
2. FEED
3. PLAY
4. NAPPY CHANGE/BATH-doesn’t have to be daily
They may feed more frequently or sleep more frequently but it’s always worth trying to get some sort of pattern started early. As you become more aware of their hunger/tired/ awake signs a routine can start to be implemented.
DAYTIME
• Go for a walk- dependent on weather
• Talk/sing/read to them
• Tummy time, even take the nappy off
• Play music
• Play gyms
• Cuddles
10-20 minutes is a perfect time frame for newborns
SLEEPTIME
• Look for sleep cues- yawning/rubbing eyes/pulling ears/frowning/looking tired-irritable/clenched fists
• Change the nappy if needed
• Wrap the baby and play gentle music- continuously(white noise)
• Dark room- calm environment/ away from noise
• Settle them ready for bed- cuddles/shushing/gentle rocking/hands on settling
• Be consistent and patient with settling your little one to sleep
• Sleep is so important for brain development, energy and growth
REMEMBER:-
• Always keep babies in their own sleeping environment within the same room as their adult caregiver
• Encourage the baby to sleep on their back-wrapping can help babies to settle and sleep on their back
• Keep the room at a constant temperature of around 21°C
• Do not overheat the baby
• No blankets/comforters/ cot bumpers are to be used that can smother baby- blankets need to be tucked in tightly under the baby’s arms
• A firm flat cot mattress that fits firmly into the cot & ensure the bedding is safe- meets the Australian standards. (check for label)
• Ultimately you can’t control your baby’s sleep and how long they sleep. As they get older you can recognise sleep cues and their behaviour.
You can book our Baby Nurse for in-store consultation online.
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