ParentingHub

Establishing a rhythm to your baby’s day is about more than making your baby feel secure; it’s about carving out some time for yourself, just to be you again. Here’s how…

1. Mealtimes
Once your baby has progressed onto solids you’ll soon establish a balanced three-meal-a-day routine of breakfast, lunch and tea, plus a few snacks in between. Babies need regular ‘food opportunities’. Although their tummies might be tiny, they need filling often. It’s worth investing in a highchair that will last out the stages, until your tot’s ready for a normal chair, around the age of three.

Why it works for you: This will teach your baby to associate mealtimes with sitting nicely at the table and reduce power struggles later. Plus, routine mealtimes lead nicely on to the next step – the nap!

2. Naps
Help your baby to nap by scheduling them at regular times (an hour in the morning and one to two hours in the early afternoon is normal for a baby between six to 18 months). Naps are best taken in the cot, mobile tinkling, blinds closed, following a trip out, lunch and a cuddle. Many babies also nap on the move in the pram, or even out in the garden (weather permitting, of course).

Why it works for you: This is your opportunity to enjoy some quiet time, whether you choose to nap yourself or just put your feet up with a cup of something and a book. Regular naps can also help to aid night-time sleep, as long as your tot doesn’t nap too late in the day.

3. Play
When she’s fed and rested, set time aside each day for play. It doesn’t have to mean lots of activity for you – mirrors, plastic containers, soft balls and toys with lights and sounds will all go down a treat. Try some simple home-made toys as well, like rice in a plastic bottle (with a lid on!).

Why it works for you: As well as stimulating imagination, hand-eye co-ordination and other skills, play will also tire her out, so more rest for you. It’ll also present new, fun ways for you to interact with each other.

4. Exercise
Get out of the house every day. A brisk walk to the shops (with a lightweight pram) or a trip to the local swimming pool will stimulate your baby and encourage better sleep. Try a parent and baby group, or pop along to a mum-friendly café. Being around other babies will teach your baby about giving, taking and sharing...

Why it works for you: Exercise will boost your overall wellbeing, and socialising with adults is a must for your sanity. Just because you’re a mum, who says you have to talk ‘baby’? Why not use the time to enjoy some grown-up conversation, or just a good old gossip!

5. Bathtime
Make a daily bath part of your baby’s wind-down-to-bed routine. Splashing and playing with her stacking cups or bath toys in the tub will amuse your baby, tire her out and keep her clean at the same time!

Why it works for you: Encourage Dad or Granny to give your baby her bath, thereby ensuring some bonding time for them, and a break for you. Bring it on – where’s the remote?

6. Book at bedtime
Cuddle up with a simple story book, in a quiet room (preferably your baby’s bedroom). Then lay him down in his cot, while he’s still awake, at a regular time every evening.

Why it works for you: OK, so your baby can’t tell the time, but starting such a cosy routine will mean bedtime should never turn into a battle, for which you will be truly grateful. You also get your evening back!