Creating a Peaceful Bedtime Routine for You and Your Baby

Routines are important for the little humans in your life just as much as they are beneficial for you. Babies learn security and emotional stability when they know what is coming next whether that is a meal, nap time, play, or your nighttime routine. Following a pattern every night will help your baby or toddler recognize that it is time to go to sleep. Allowing your baby’s brain to predict this routine will allow for a more restful and efficient night for both YOU and the baby. Keep in mind, a bedtime routine will change from family to family and always do what is best for you. But here are some Kicks Tips for your family to develop a routine for your little ones.

Relaxing Bath
A warm bath is a wonderful first step in this routine as the water is comforting to the baby. I know that I consider a bath an essential part of self care for myself! Spending bath time with you and your baby is also a wonderful time to bond. Amazingly soft rags such as these or a sea sponge like this for the most gentle cleansing. When bath time is over, wrap your baby up in this towel that is so soft it feels like love.

Baby massage
Not only are baby massages a wonderful way for your little love to feel nurtured and loved, they will also help boost the production of melatonin. This is a hormone that plays an essential part in sleep. Use this wonderful and natural lotion as you give your baby a gentle massage that will help with gas pains, make them relaxed, and help you relax as well.

Sleep bag
Sleep bags are a sweet addition to the night time routine as they help regulate body’s temperature. They also eliminate the need for blankets which makes the sleeping situation safer. Sleep bags like this come in a variety of sizes and colors for your little ones. Weighted sleep sacks like this are also beneficial as the weight feels like a hug to the baby.

Pacifier

For some families, a pacifier is a huge part of their routines! We believe we have the best brand out there - loved by so many babies. Check out our large selection of Bibs brands pacifiers!

Lights Out and a Lullaby
This is the part of the night where the baby should start feeling extremely relaxed as they are entering the last piece of this routine. Singing to your baby continues to promote this special bond as studies have shown that lullabies comfort both you and the baby. If they hear your voice every night as they fall asleep, they will recognize this is their time to fall asleep. At this point, you could also add in some white noise. We have the Baby Shusher in stock - easy to transport for wherever you may need it!

You should develop your routine around what your priorities are and what your family looks like. Once you find this routine that works for you, your family, and your baby, stick to it as you begin to allow this to benefit your baby. We look forward to hearing about these routines at Kicks! Feel free to come in the store to shop these products as well - our associates will gladly help you find what we shared in this blog!