Routine for a newborn?

You may think it's impossible to establish a newborn routine, but we assure you it's not! During the first four weeks, you and your baby will bond through frequent feedings and lots of sleep. Once you hit the four-week mark, your baby can go longer between feedings, and if you're breastfeeding, your milk supply should be well-established, and any latching issues should have been resolved. At this point, you and your baby will be more relaxed, and it's an ideal time to start introducing a gentle routine.

The benefits of a newborn routine are numerous:

• You can plan your day around your baby's feedings and naps,

• enjoy outings with your baby while he or she sleeps in a pram or sling,

• catch up on the sleep you missed during the early weeks, have a contented baby, and feel relaxed and confident as parents.

• Furthermore, a baby who learns to self-soothe at a young age through a gentle routine will never require controlled crying.

So, how do you establish a routine?

The key is to proceed slowly but surely and work with your baby's natural rhythm. The most important part of a routine is establishing regular sleep times that work for your baby. By learning the signs that your baby is tired, you can encourage him or her to self-soothe as early as four weeks old, regardless of whether you're bottle or breastfeeding.

If you're interested in learning more about our gentle newborn routine or any other baby advice, please call Leanne, our sleep consultant, on 02035762312