Creating a Bedtime Routine

[michael06]

You’ve probably heard that bedtime routines are an important piece of your baby’s nighttime sleep. Wondering why they’re important, when to start, and what to include? Let’s talk about it.
Why are bedtime routines so important?

Babies thrive on predictability and routine. Their little worlds are full of action and stimulation, but providing a consistent routine offers safety and security.

Did you know that by 8 weeks of age, your baby can recognize a bedtime routine? It’s true! He begins to learn that the series of events you do prior to bedtime means sleep is coming. Start tonight!

Don’t worry! Your bedtime routine does NOT have to be complicated. The most important thing about a bedtime routine is that you do the same things in the same order each night. That doesn’t mean you have to read the exact SAME book, but you can! That doesn’t mean you have to give a bath EVERY night, but you can!
When should bedtime be?

First, we want to make sure that your baby has good awake time before bed. An overtired baby at bedtime can cause huge bedtime battles. Likewise, not being tired enough can make falling asleep difficult. If you need help finding the right wake windows for your baby, this can help.

Age

Wake Window Before Bedtime

4-12 Weeks

75-90 minutes

3-4 Months

90-120 minutes

5-6 Months

2.5-3 hours

7-14 Months

3-4 hours

14-24 Months

4-5 hours

You’ll also want to pay attention to the time on the clock. Most babies (older than 4 months) come to a natural lull between 7-8:00pm. This time is typically when little ones fall asleep the easiest and stay asleep the longest. Now, some babies may need earlier, and some newborns may do better with later bedtimes, but 7-8:00pm is often that sweet spot.

So how do you achieve that “sweet spot” bedtime and still maintain your baby’s necessary wake window? Use this to help!

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