Sleep On the Go
If you follow us you will know that both Elen and I are big fans of routine for both ourselves and our children and, having spoken to lots of you out there, it seems that we are not alone! In truth, most adults and babies feel comforted by a bit of consistency such as eating and sleeping at (roughly) the same time every day however, you never want to feel so tied to a routine or schedule that you can’t get out there and enjoy the increasing freedom that we can now enjoy!
Saying that, I know that letting go of timings for a day can lead to anxiety and worries such as ‘what if they don’t nap?’ or ‘will they eat as well out and about?’ even ‘what if they fall asleep in the car too close to bedtime?’ Lockdown hasn’t helped as many of us have had babies in the Covid era where we didn’t even need to consider organising naps or feeds out of the house!
So, with that in mind, here are some tips on managing those playdates, coffees, classes and days out without the worry:
- Always be prepared: Little people come with A LOT of baggage so don’t underestimate what you might need. Things like extra clothes and milk (if you’re formula feeding) and food/snacks (if they’re on solids) are a good shout! If you are out for bedtime, create a mini version of bedtime wherever you are e.g. change into sleepsuit, feed, lullaby. Try to bring sleep props if you use them such as comforter, white noise, portable blackout blind (https://gro.co.uk/product/gro-anywhere-blind) and familiar smelling bedding!
-Plan sleeping opportunities: If your little one still naps, plan for these still to happen and facilitate these as close to the normal nap time as possible. For example if you are travelling somewhere, travel on the nap so that a sleep can happen in the car. Giving them more time to settle may also help your little one nod off in a different environment and help the day flow a bit more smoothly.
-Consider Baby wearing: Particularly helpful helping very young babies get to sleep on the go as your movement and close contact can help induce sleep and keep them asleep for longer. If you’re local to Hampshire, check out www.bambinobaby.co.uk where the owner, Roamy, can advise you on the best carrier for you!
- Plan things at convenient times for you: Planning things between naps or after an afternoon nap may be easier and help with managing any anxiety about these changes. Do what works for you and don’t be afraid to say ‘no’ if it doesn’t.
-Safely does it: If your baby has a nap in the buggy, choose a breathable sleep shade (https://www.snoozeshade.com) or a parasol (https://www.madeformums.com/reviews/best-buggy-covers) rather than covering with a muslin or a blanket to avoid overheating.
-More feeds? That’s ok! Many babies will ask for a feed when needing a bit of extra reassurance or comfort or even if they feel a bit overstimulated! If you’re breastfeeding and you’re out and about, it can take time to build confidence. I always found extra large muslins or a breastfeeding cover like one of these www.motherandbaby.co.uk/first-year/products/mum/best-breastfeeding-nursing-covers helped when on the go!
- Don’t stress! If naps don’t happen for one or two days it really isn’t the end of the world and won’t de-rail their sleep permanently! If you do have an overtired baby due to lack of nap, then adjust bedtime that evening bringing it forward to compensate for less sleep than normal.
So, when parents ask if one or two days off a routine will cause lasting damage to sleep, I answer with a confident NO! It is ok (and actually healthy for you) to take a day off from the routine or schedule ESPECIALLY after the last 18 months! If you’re feeling a bit anxious about this, that’s OK, start small with half days out maybe taking one nap on the go and then work towards a whole day.
Enjoy getting out a bit more and having fun with your little people!
If you need any support on this or anything else sleep related, Elen and I are here for you and offer a free chat to see how we can help.
Cherry & Elen X