Seven Christmas sleep habits that will help get baby down over festive period
For many of us, the festive period provides a welcome break from the dreariness and drudgery of our everyday routines.
But as those with very young children will know, babies live by their own schedule rather than ours. Thankfully, that doesn't mean Christmas has to be ruined by parental anxiety - or a baby's constant crying. It's perfectly possible to celebrate in a way that compromises neither your child's happiness nor yours.
So if all you want for Christmas is a good night's sleep, or a night of revelry uninterrupted by an upset infant, here are some tips for how to manage your baby's sleep routine. Rest assured, you can still have a great sleeper during (and after) the holiday season.
Stick to your usual routine
Rest assured, it is possible to have fun this festive season without wrecking your baby's sleep routine (Getty Images)Most babies learn to prepare for sleep as soon as they recognise certain sleep cues – think bath time, a feed, a story, or a change into pyjamas. If you're going away at Christmas, it is important to avoid disrupting any of those associations.
Try to take your baby's familiar items (blankets, toys, sleep aids, etc.) so that they have a measure of familiarity around them at all times. This will keep their sleep environment as "normal" as possible.
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Prepare for late nights
Late nights are almost inevitable around Christmas time. If you know you won't be home until the early hours, try taking pyjamas or your baby's sleeping bag with you.
Babies will likely be content with sleeping during a long car journey, but make an effort to plan the travelling at your baby's usual nap or sleep times and gently put them to bed as soon as you get home.
If they wake up, go into your usual sleep routine. But don't fret if your baby does end up going to sleep a little later than usual and just be mindful of this the next day by keeping stimulation and other activities to a minimum.
Watch for sleep cues during busy days
Christmas can mean a lot of coming and going of new faces. Babies often find the hustle and bustle exciting, but some will feel unsettled – so keep checking for sleep cues (rubbing eyes, yawning, crying, etc.) and bring nap or sleep times forward if needed.
Watch your own routine
This one is for adults. If you know your baby is going to be up early on Christmas morning, consider going to sleep early. But if you do want to let loose a little, it might be worth arranging baby-sitters (or grandparents) to step in for caring duties so that you can have a lie-in. Otherwise, go to bed at a reasonable hour. Your body, and your baby, will thank you.
Disruptions are temporary
Christmas-related disruptions don't need to spill over into your everyday routines. Just make sure you decide when Christmas is officially "over" and set that date as the time to get back on track with your usual nap and bedtimes.
Don't let routine rule you
Strive for balance rather than perfection. Don't turn down all the party invitations of the season out of fear your baby won't be able to cope – choose the ones you feel are most important, or that will be the least disruptive. Adults also need a break from routine.
Be as flexible as you can
Yes, be consistent – but you should be able to enjoy a little flexibility, too. If your routine does become somewhat muddled for a day or two, don't panic. As long as you return to it quickly once you are back home, you and your baby won't feel a difference.
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