Introduction
Hey Winefam! It’s your Mom Tip Tuesday. While nursing my toddler to bed I thought about how many of you were probably doing the same thing. How do we get the kiddos to sleep? What can we do to inspire quality sleep? We all know that getting a fussy babe to sleep can feel like an Olympic sport. But fear not! Here are some tried and true tips from your neighborhood wine-loving mom to help your little one drift off to dreamland. So grab a coffee or a wine and let’s talk about it. Remember, every baby is unique, so feel free to adapt these tips to suit your child’s needs.
Fill that Belly
First things first: a hungry baby is often a fussy baby. Hangry much? Ensure your little one is well-fed before bedtime. If you’re nursing, this can also be a soothing routine that helps them wind down. For bottle-fed babies, remember brushing their tiny teeth post-feeding is crucial to prevent cavities.
Diaper Duty
A wet or soiled diaper is uncomfortable and can wake your baby prematurely. A fresh diaper before bed helps ensure they stay dry and comfy throughout the night. Also choosing a diaper that holds liquid well is key to ensuring good sleep. Three of my favorites are Kirkland brand diapers, Pampers Baby Dry, and Millie Moon they have help up during nighttime for my kiddos with no leaking. However, it still stands that Honest has the best wipes. #winning
The Magic of Infant Massage
Infant massage is a wonderful way to relax your baby. Use gentle, soothing strokes. Focus on their arms, legs, back, and tummy. It’s not just calming but can aid digestion. Think of how soundly you would sleep if you got a nice massage right before bed, trust me a good infant massage is amazing. Check out this article for a more in-depth guide to infant massage.
Baby Vaporub and Socks
A little vapor rub on the feet, covered with cozy socks, can work wonders, especially if your kiddo has a cold. For babies and toddlers the traditional vapor rub is not recommended however, look for baby-friendly products suitable for ages 3 months and older. They are formulated with milder ingredients like fragrances of rosemary, lavender, and eucalyptus These rubs are designed to be soothing without the strong menthol scent found in regular menthol, camphor, and eucalyptus oil-containing vaporub. A humidifier can also help during bedtime to help your little one feel more comfortable. Its soothing mist can help ease their breathing.
Weighted Blankets: A Cozy Quilted Hug
Weighted blankets are like a warm hug, providing gentle, even pressure. For mamas of neurodivergent littles, weighted blankets are amazing for creating that calming environment they desire. They mimic the sensation of being held and can significantly soothe a fussy sleeper. This is the one my little ones use linked here.
Safety and Use of Weighted Blankets (not medical advice)
- Age Appropriate: Weighted blankets are generally safe for children over a year old.
- Weight Matters: The blanket should be around 10% of your child’s body weight.
- Supervision is Key: Always supervise to ensure your child’s face is not covered.
Routine, Routine, Routine
Consistency is king. You might be able to read the clock but most likely your baby cannot, using the same routine at the same time helps condition your child to go to bed more easily. A bedtime routine signals to your baby that it’s time to wind down. This can include a warm bath, reading a book, or cuddling. This video here shows my favorite bedtime routine. Using this routine I can get three children to bed in less than 2 hours by myself.
Conclusion
Dear Winefam, remember: that patience is your best friend. Each of these tips can be a game-changer in achieving peaceful nights. Trust your instincts, and soon enough, you’ll find what works best for your little star. Sweet dreams! Check out last weeks Mom Tip Tuesday and come back every Tuesday for more.
As always hoping your wine or your coffee is stronger than your kids.
-Amber
Meet the face behind CarbsNCabernet.com –Amber a devoted mom, wife, wine enthusiast, and advocate for balancing life’s pleasures with practicality. With a passion for sharing her journey through motherhood, she offers a unique blend of honest insights, humor, and relatable experiences. From navigating the chaos of parenting to savoring the simple joys of a good glass of cabernet, she believes in embracing both the mess and the magic of everyday life. Her blog is a haven for moms seeking solidarity, inspiration, and a reminder to enjoy the little things, one carb and one sip at a time. Join her as she uncovers the beauty in imperfection and the richness of daily living – all with a touch of wit and a lot of heart.
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