The Importance of Routines for Babies
Sooner or later, many new mothers realize the importance of routines for babies, especially newborns. Babies need to follow a routine to feel safe and calm in their new environment.
Establishing daily routines for babies helps them feel good. It can also help make life easier for the whole family.
The important thing is to keep in mind that, during their first few months of life, you have to take it easy and take time to get to know them. That way you’ll be able to create good habits and appropriate routines for babies.
The importance of routines for babies
At first, babies cannot understand most things that happen around them. For this reason, it’s necessary to help them get used to doing certain tasks at the same time every day.
Here are some ideas to create a routine that works for both you and your child.
1. Show your baby the difference between night and day
Many babies confuse days and nights. Certainly, you’ll notice that sometimes your baby sleeps for prolonged periods during the day and sometimes has difficulty sleeping at night. Teaching him to distinguish the difference is an important step toward a practical routine.
To make it possible, change your baby’s clothes before putting him to bed and do it again when he wakes up to show him when night occurs and when the day begins.
Also, keep the house bright and noisy during the day but dark and quiet at night. These changes will give him the opportunity to learn to sleep at night and take advantage of the day to play and socialize.
2. Your baby’s routine is a priority
It’s best to keep your baby’s routine as consistent as possible, especially when he’s still getting used to it. Make your child’s routine a priority to help him understand that some things happen at specific times.
A habit can also help you maintain focus and order during the day, in the midst of the constant oscillation of needs and attention that the baby requires.
Of course, your baby’s arrival causes you to be more busy and you cannot always anticipate every setback. However, we recommend taking a daily outing, such as going for a walk outdoors or visiting friends, to get the baby used to going out and discovering the world around him.
The idea of always putting the baby’s routine first can be daunting, especially for first-time moms. So, don’t be afraid to ask for help from your friends, family or a specialist if you need it.
Before teaching children to read, you have to help them learn what love and truth are.
–Mahatma Gandhi–
3. Learn to read your baby’s signals
Signals are the indications your baby gives to let you know how he feels and what he needs. As a mother, you must learn what the child’s signals mean and how to respond to them.
In this context, let the baby guide you to the routine that suits him the best. If you pay attention to his signals, he’ll tell you what he needs.
However, understanding what your baby expresses will take a lot of time and patience. So, try to notice when your child is tired, hungry or ready to play. This information will help you create an effective routine and give you the chance to anticipate his needs.
4. Adjust the baby’s routine according to his age
Once you’ve established a fairly predictable routine with your baby, it may seem difficult to change it again. However, as your baby grows, he’ll need fewer naps during the day and more time to play and do activities.
In addition, around the age of 6 months, he’ll also need to start eating solid foods. Then, you’ll have to have more time to prepare his meals. As you learn your baby’s needs, these routine changes will seem more natural.
5. Don’t expect perfection
Your baby’s routine won’t always work like a clock. Although children like consistency and regularity, some changes can happen as the baby grows.
You should bear in mind that sometimes the little one won’t want to nap, eat as usual, or wake up at the same time. So arm yourself with patience and get ready for the unexpected.
Finally, once you understand your baby’s routine, use your moments of rest to regain strength and spend some time taking care of yourself. Watch your favorite programs or take a good hot bath to give yourself the energy necessary to continue enjoying the growth of your baby.
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- Jaramillo, M. F., Mora, C. T. E., Ortiz, E., Chalén, D. F. Q., Legarda, P. O., & Boyce, L. (2020). Intervención basada en rutinas como apoyo a la participación familiar para el desarrollo del lenguaje en bebés prematuros. Revista de Logopedia, Foniatría y Audiología, 40(3), 110-117. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0214460320300681
- Ortiz, J. A., Borré, A., Carrillo, S., & Gutiérrez, G. (2006). Relación de apego en madres adolescentes y sus bebés canguro. Revista latinoamericana de psicología, 38(1), 71-86. http://www.scielo.org.co/pdf/rlps/v38n1/v38n1a05.pdf?