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Written by Jane Freeman
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The first few weeks, are undoubtedly the hardest. It is important to take things as they come and just nap whenever you can.
Remember your newborn has no concept of night or day and will probably only sleep for a few hours at a time before needing another feed or nappy change.
Don’t worry about the housework - it can wait. Sleep when they sleep and remember to eat when you can. Try to keep up your energy levels so that you are able to cope with the demands of your baby.
Some of the best tips for getting your baby off to sleep are the most obvious. If you put your baby down while they are snug and warm and asleep, it is likely that they will be woken again by a cool cot or bed. Waiting until your child is asleep in your arms can lead to them waking up shortly afterwards and being startled by their new surroundings.
By putting your baby down before they have fallen alsleep in your arms they will start to recognise bedtime as part of the procedure they go through every day. They will become used to being left on their own and getting themselves off to sleep.
Telling babies and young children stories can be really useful in calming them down. They may not understand your words but just the familiarity of your voice and the calm and relaxing environment will soothe them ready for sleep.
Just as with other aspects of baby care, it’s all about helping your baby form a routine.
Picking your baby up may seem like an instant remedy, but you are sending them the wrong signals. A reassuring hug without lifting them out of the cot can comfort and get them back to sleep.
As anyone who has had a baby will know, these first few weeks are extremely tiring and testing. Your emotions are high and your hormones are still completely haywire, so don’t be surprised if you are struggling to cope. Try to get help from a partner or another family member, or ask your health visitor. Consider a night nanny. Night Nannies, set up by Georgie Bateman in 2001, is an example of a local company that provides help to parents with newborn babies.
Their quote is ‘get yourself a good night’s sleep’. A night nanny will usually arrive at 9pm and leave at 7am, however these hours are flexible. Your night nanny will help care for your baby and assist you in trying to get them to sleep through the night. She will give night feeds, change nappies, settle your baby, prepare and sterilise your bottles, dress and prepare your baby in the morning and will even stay longer to let you have a lie in!
For more information call 01794 301762 or visit: www.nightnannies.com
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