What is a sleep schedule?
A sleep schedule is simply a consistent time everyday that baby takes naps or goes to bed for the night.
They vary depending on baby’s age and needs. Some children need two naps during the day, some only need one, some don’t need to nap at all!
How does a sleep schedule help my baby?
Babies THRIVE on consistency and schedules (honestly adults too). Having a schedule for baby reduces stress!
When something happens every day at the same time (like a nap) kids are comforted by the fact that they know what’s going to happen. They aren’t surprised. This reduces stress and helps baby fall asleep faster.
It is OK to be hesitant!
I was hesitant myself. As a new mom with my first baby, I thought that my son would naturally to go sleep when he was tired. And he did!… for the first few weeks. Once he grew out of the sleepy newborn stage, letting him decide when to nap or go to bed was no longer healthy for Either of us. My little bud was overtired, or extra cranky and irritable, because he was fighting so sleep so hard. As a huge napper myself, I did not understand. Why didn’t he go to sleep when he was tired?
The answer I found is that babies are stubborn!! They think sleep is this horrible thing that simply exists to steal their day away. Of course this isn’t true.
So you have to train them like puppies
Methods for Sleep Training!
- The 5, 10, 15 minute method (Ferber method)
- Lay ’em down and let ’em cry it out (CIO)
- Chair next to baby’s crib
- Rock them asleep then gently lay them down
- Respectful sleep training
I personally used the Ferber method with my baby. The first few days were hard to listen to, but he adjusted to it quickly and started sleeping through the night in no time!
Thank you for reading!
About the Author
Hello! I’m Rose.
Thank you for reading my blog!
I’m a single mother to a beautiful baby boy. Every day I jungle being a college student, growing my relationship with Jesus, implementing positive parenting, and being present with my child.
I love to share my experiences raising my rosebud and the lessons life has taught me along the way. Have a blessed day and remember: You are NOT alone.