Relaxing Baby Bedtime Routine

Help Baby Sleep Better, and Parents Too!

The dark circles under new parents' eyes and exhausted expressions on their faces are testament to why sleep is a big focus for most moms and dads of infants. The advice is often to make a routine for the baby. In reality, most babies don't sleep through the night for a while, but a routine will help him or her to relax and begin to wind down toward a restful sleep. Although he or she may not sleep through the night at three months, here are a few simple suggestions to help babies and parents create a relaxing bedtime routine and enjoy a better night of sleep.

*Be consistent on bedtime, and leave enough time for the entire bedtime routine.

In order for a bedtime routine to be effective, it's necessary to leave enough time before the baby is overtired. Once a baby becomes too tired, she may get too upset to be comforted. This usually results in a frustrated baby and stressed parents. Allow about forty-five minutes to an hour before the established, nightly bedtime.

*Parents, relax with a cup of tea.

Babies are very sensitive to the energy around them, especially their parents'. Do whatever is necessary to relax in order to be calm with the baby. A cup of herbal tea can do wonders. Try a mix of catnip and chamomile, a calming blend. In the case of breastfeeding mothers, Traditional Chinese Medicine treats the mom in order to treat the baby-an added benefit of a calming nighttime tea for breastfeeding mothers.

*Set a relaxing mood.

Music is an amazing sedative for babies. Lullabies are always a traditional option, however, there's now a plethora of relaxing music available specific to babies, as well as relaxing adult genres. Mellow jazz and new age and two particularly relaxing genres. Experiment and find music that the entire family enjoys. Also, dim the lights to help the baby's eyes relax.

*Give an infant massage.