Wind down. An hour or so before your chosen bedtime, start to wind down and choose activities that are calming and relaxing. A nice warm bath, followed by a story or song and her the last feeding can be very soothing. If you have a baby who hates the bath, you might schedule that for earlier in the day! Initially, your baby will use those activities to relax before falling asleep, and eventually, she’ll recognize the routine.
Bond. Include in your bedtime routine include a special game, a nighttime chat and cuddle or music together.
Be consistent. Consistency is the most important part of the routine, even when you are out of town or when family is babysitting. Leave a copy of the bedtime schedule with your babysitter; they will be happy to have a baby that settles down and goes to bed without trouble.
Do you have a nighttime routine? Share in our comment section below your tips and strategies for getting your babies to sleep.