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it’s all routine
our step by step guide
All babies, whether infants or toddlers, love to know what is coming next; they thrive on routine.
This is why we recommend that baby’s bedtime ritual should involve the same steps, preferably at the same time, every night.
step 1: bath time
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Ensure the water temperature is not too warm and not too cold. Always check temperature before placing baby in the water. NEVER leave a baby or infant unattended in the bath.
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Ensure that there is not a dramatic difference in temperature from when baby is lifted from the bath and being dressed for bed. Using a large hooded towel will ensure baby’s head and body remain warm until they are dry and in their sleep clothing.
step 2: fresh change and soothing touch
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Studies have shown increased touch and sensory stimulation for babies is one way to boost the likelihood of healthy child development.**
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Take this time to give baby a massage with body lotion or oil. This can be a wonderful bonding time for you and your baby.
step 3: feeding time
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Soften the lights and draw the curtains in baby’s room to allow for his/her eyes to adjust to the idea that sleep is coming soon.
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Ensure you remember to burp your baby after feeding and before putting down to sleep.
step 4: swaddling as a sleep trigger
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Infants, especially newborns, spend two-thirds of their day sleeping. This is necessary for their brain development and immune system recharge.**
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Swaddled babies sleep better: swaddling decreases the instances of babies startling themselves awake with sudden, involuntary movements caused by the Moro (or “startle”) reflex.
step 5: shhhhhh sleep time...
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Some babies are sensitive to sounds — use a sound machine to help drown out noises that may wake baby. Newborns tend to respond well to white noise.***
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Avoid distractions: keep the bed for sleep and rest, not playtime.
*
World Health Organization study (2004)
**
Frank MG, Issa NP Styker MP (2001)
***
Dr Harvey Karp, The happiest baby on the block (2003)
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