How to Establish Nighttime Routines for Newborn

Newborn babies may benefit from a nighttime routine in several ways. The baby may feel more secure if a routine is established and ease into sleep. There is not one perfect routine that will be right for every newborn or parent. Parents may need to experiment with different routines to determine what works best for their baby.

Instructions

1. Consider your other family members. For example if you have older children it may be impossible to keep the house quite and dark as part of a nighttime routine. Take into consideration your work schedule and living arrangements to develop a routine that will work for the entire family.

2. Be as consistent as possible. In order for a routine to work you will have to do the same thing on most nights. Your newborn will gain comfort from knowing what comes next.

3. Create a calm environment. Newborn babies are still adjusting to life outside the womb. Too much noise can overwhelm a newborn and prevent him or her from getting to sleep. Use low lighting and play soothing music. Keep in mind you want to transition the baby from activities to sleep--the less stimulation the better.

4. Give a bath and massage. Although a newborn baby does not need a bath every night it may be a relaxing part of a nighttime routine. Be sure to use a gentle soap or just water if you are bathing the infant nightly. Get a book or DVD on how to give an infant massage to help sooth your newborn.

5. Feed and rock your newborn. It will be easier for a newborn to fall asleep if he does not have an empty tummy. Gently rocking a baby is an enjoyable part of a nighttime routine for both newborns and parents.

6. Allow a little flexibility. While consistency is important it may be impossible to do the routine every night. Do the nighttime routine as often as possible but understand things happen that may prevent it. Don't be too rigid. It will only put stress on you and your baby.