Five-steps to a blissful bedtime routine

Little people thrive on routine! Having a pattern to the day can help a baby feel safe and secure because they learn to know what’s coming next. By introducing routines and rituals your little one will generally be calmer and more cooperative, and bedtime is no exception!

Try not to worry about bedtime routines in the very early days, but from about six to eight weeks you can begin to introduce some simple rituals that, over time, will help your little one recognise bedtime and settle more easily.

Here is our way to a blissful bedtime routine:

1) Bath

A warm bath can be incredibly soothing and calming for a baby. It can also provide an opportunity for some skin-on-skin time if you jump in too! If your baby doesn’t enjoy being in the bath, leave it out of your bedtime routine. Remember, this routine is meant to be positive and enjoyable for you and your baby.

2) Massage

Baby massage is a wonderful way to help your baby calm down to sleep. Studies show that babies who are massaged on a regular basis have higher levels of melatonin in the brain (that’s the sleepy hormone!). Try giving your baby a short, five-minute massage with an organic oil when they come out of the bath. We recommend our Little Bairn's Sleepy Time Bath & Massage Oil which contains essential oils to promote sleep.

3) ‘Goodnight moon’ / ‘Goodnight friends’

This is a lovely ritual to begin at an early age. Open the curtains and say goodnight to the moon, or move around the room and say goodnight to your baby’s special ‘friends’. This is bound to become a favourite part of bedtime as your baby grows.

4) Story

Studies suggest that it is never too early to start reading to your baby! While your newborn won’t be able to understand the words you are reading, hearing you speak promotes brain and speech development. It also provides a great opportunity to sit and cuddle! Choose a simple board book with large, high contrast pictures.

5) Feed & Lullaby

Fill your baby’s tummy with a breast or bottle feed, before singing them a gentle lullaby. It doesn’t matter whether you consider yourself to be a good singer; the soft, familiar tone of your voice will calm and soothe your little one before they lay down.

Thanks to Little Bairn for contributing this Article