Being a new parent is a roller coaster ride of emotions. You brought your little bundle of joy into the world, but that little bundle of joy has turned your sleep schedule upside down.
The first couple of months are a learning period, but babies’ sleep patterns usually start to improve by the two- to three-month mark. During this major life change, it’s important to find ways to get some rest.
Here are 6 tips to stay well-rested:
- Go for a morning walk. Create a morning routine you enjoy, and start with a morning walk. Natural sunlight can reset your circadian rhythm, and a quick exercise at the beginning of the day can make you feel more energized.
- Say yes to help. You can’t do it all — or maybe you can and are superhuman — but it’s important to delegate tasks and accept help when it’s offered. Lean on your family and friends to help with some chores and tasks, especially in the first few months.
- Swaddle your baby. Go back to basics. Swaddling has been around for thousands of years, and for good reason. Swaddling makes your baby feel safe and warm, which will help them adjust to their new life outside of the womb.
- Turn on the white noise. Just like adults, a fan or white noise maker can help put your baby at ease when it’s bedtime.
- Turn off the electronics. It’s 2019, so there are more screens vying for you and your child’s attention than ever. Turn them off early, so neither of your are overstimulated when it’s time to rest.
- Sleep when you can. Quiet time is rare, so take advantage of it when you can and sleep when your baby sleeps.
Congrats on expanding your family! Sleep may seem like a foreign concept to your baby right now, but in time they’ll adjust.