P.O. Box 1074 Mooloolaba Qld 4557 |
Some parents seem to have a magic touch when it comes to helping children stay calm, happy, and cooperative. For many with this talent, the secret is their use of routines and rituals. We know that routines are important to the very youngest. Your newborn baby came into the world with natural sleeping, eating, and alert patterns. At first, you follow your newborn’s lead, and then—over the ensuing months—you guide the creation of routines dependent on your parenting choices and style. The structure and predictability of these routines are essential elements in providing your baby a sense of security and comfort.
Routines provide a cocoon of safety and security when he has so little control over the events of his life. While the daily maintenance of life may bore the mind (What is fascinating about changing another nappy, emptying the dishwasher again, and feeding the dog?), your emotional health and even your soul need a certain amount of routine. Routines are healthy for you and your child!
Transforming daily routines
Transforming a daily routine into a loving ritual can be magical. For example, take extra time and add a kiss, a hug, or baby massage during your baby’s nappy time. Pay close attention to elements in your baby’s surroundings such as light, sounds, music, and objects to touch and see. Recognise which of these elements seem to produce noticeable delight in the form of cooing sounds, flailing arms and kicking legs, or consistent eye contact. Include a few of these favourite elements in your baby’s environment during bath time and watch the routine transform into a delightful ritual.
Continually talk and sing to your baby. Select a favourite song and sing it to your baby while getting ready for the daily pram ride. Your tender, loving attention and care transform your baby’s routines into rituals. It’s like magic!
Focus some extra loving attention on your baby’s night time routine. Enjoy a cosy lullaby ritual together while singing your favourite lullaby to your baby. Your voice is your baby’s most comforting and beloved sound!