Every parent wants to form an intimate relationship with their baby. As such, getting into a routine with one’s baby is one of the major challenges of parenthood. You have to learn how to read the signs of when your baby needs to eat, sleep, or play. That could work well for you and your family, and make everyday easier!
Parents who are able to manage their baby’s needs are more likely to have an easier time taking care of their baby. You want that too, right? I know it is every parent’s desire to make the most of raising their kids.
When your baby reaches 3-4 weeks of age, you may choose to follow this suggested schedule:
6:30 AM At this time, your baby is likely to be up and awake for the day. You may feed him with 4-6 ounces of formula milk or breast milk. Babies often take another nap after a drinking their milk in the morning.
8:30-9:30 AM You can feed your baby another bottle of milk (or breast milk if you prefer) when he wakes up from his morning nap. If he’s still dozing off at this time, you may try to wake him up. Some babies also take another nap after this time.
10:30-11:30 AM Your baby may be fully awake again around 10 in the morning. Use this time of the day to bond with your baby. Take time out of your day to let your baby explore by playing or interacting with you. Since his bones and muscles are still on the process of developing, try to engage him in activities that can help exercise his muscles.
As your baby’s brain cells also develop, it is also suggested that you engage him in conversation. You can narrate the daily events with him or talk to him. Your baby will also really enjoy riding in a baby carrier or in a stroller. All his surroundings are from a new view which can be interesting to him! You can also introduce him to other people to improve his social skills. A dose of sunlight will be good for his health too.
12:00 PM Time for lunch! After the events of the day, your baby will be tired of playing. Watch out for signs of hunger from your baby. If he sucks his lips or fingers, or if he cries, then it’s time you give him his milk.
12:30-3:30 PM Your baby will be likely to take a long nap in the afternoon. You too can take some time off to do other things while your baby is sleeping. Just be sure to check on him from time to time.
3:30 PM It’s playtime again. You can give your baby another bottle of formula before you play with him.
6:30-7:30 PM After having dinner with your family, try to give your baby his dinner too.
8:00 PM You may give your baby a bath before you put him to bed. This will keep him clean and relax him before bed. Just keep in mind that you don’t need to do this everyday. This is also a good time for you to give your baby a massage.
After his bath, you may put your baby on a blanket or mat. Rub on some oil or lotion and gently massage his body, starting with his arms up to his legs. This will be a good bonding moment between you and your baby. The power of touch can help soothe your baby.
9:00-11:00 PM You can put your baby in his cradle or rock him to sleep while you watch your favorite evening news or TV program.
4:00 AM Your baby may be awake as early as 4:00 AM. You may try to check his diapers and change them. After that, you can give him a bottle of milk if he’s already hungry.
As you can see, it’s quite a long day! Just always make sure you take good care of yourself and don’t over do it! In order for you to take good care of your baby, you must first take good care of yourself!
