Parents of newborns or infants are generally desperate for some extra sleep. Unfortunately, with babies waking through the night and housework building up, sleep tends to fall at the end of the list during each day.
Mistake # 1: Leaving chores for the end of the day.
It seems like a great idea. Waiting until your kids are asleep to do the laundry and sweep the floors. Unfortunately, these types of activities will tend to leave you wired and unable to fall asleep. We recommend leaving only 1 or two chores for this time of day and the allotting some quiet time. Read a book, watch TV or do something relaxing before bed.
Mistake # 2: Waiting in your child’s room until he/she falls asleep.
Not only does this waste precious time that you have to do things or rest yourself, it teaches your child that he/she can’t fall asleep on their own. This also sets you up for frequent fits during the night as your child will awaken without you there. I suggest setting a bed time routine and stick with it. Mine goes as follows:
- 7:00 – Bath Time
- 7:30 – PJ’s and Brushing of Teeth
- 7:45 – Story time
- 8:00 – Lights Out
With a routine like this, your child will fall asleep like a PRO and be less dependent on somebody else to fall asleep. This schedule also allows you free time to relax while your child is falling sound asleep in his/her own room
Mistake # 3: Allowing your children to sleep in your bed.
There are several opinions when it comes to co-sleeping. As a matter of fact, the biggest fear of co-sleeping is the safety issue. Your child could easily fall out of bed or be hurt if you roll over. This is when a co-sleeper comes into play. This bed side bassinet can help your newborn to fall asleep while you get some much needed rest as well!
