How Routine Impacts Sleep
Let’s chat about routines and why it can positively impact sleep! I know, I know, you probably hear the word “routine” thrown around all the time and sometimes it can feel hard to stick to routine and still enjoy fun activities as they arise. The reality is a consistent sleep routine doesn’t have to feel like your life is being dictated by their schedule 24/7. Would you believe me if I told you there is room for both in the baby sleep world? Let’s get into it!
When we follow a consistent sleep routine our brains and our bodies start to learn that these steps are all leading to sleep. Without routine, however, our brains and bodies can be a little bit confused about when its actually time to wind down for the night. Does this mean every night you are bound to the bedtime routine for eternity & it now rules your life? Of course not! When you have a solid sleep routine your body gets better at compensating when life throws the occasional curveball or holiday party your way. You can fly through the odd late night because your body knows what to expect the majority of the time. This is what I like to refer to as they 80/20 rule.
Kids, despite their natural unpredictability, actually THRIVE on routine. It gives them a sense of safety and security that especially comes in handy as they are preparing for bed. When bedtime happens like clockwork, their little bodies get better at releasing the hormones needed for a restful sleep. This also means you are far less likely to have to deal with those dreaded overtired meltdowns that can happen when they are struggling to get their bodies to sleep.
While there are many people who shudder at the word “routine”, we are not aiming for rigid perfection, just consistency. Here are the areas you are going to want to focus on:
Bedtime and Wake Up Times: Try to keep these within 30 minutes of the same time daily.
Pre Bed Routine: This could include a bath, play time, stories, songs, lotion and pyjamas.
Sleep Environment: Keep the room as dark as possible, turn the sound machine on and make sure it’s a comfortable temperature.
At the end of the day, routine isn’t about being boring or letting a schedule run out life; it’s about creating a predictable rhythm that let’s your child know sleep time is coming. And remember once you have a consistent routine (I usually recommend at least 2 weeks of not deviating from the routine) in place, you can start practicing they 80/20 rule and enjoy some off schedule nights knowing your little one is still going to sleep well!
