Welcoming a newborn into your life is a joyous yet demanding experience, especially when it comes to establishing routines. One approach that has gained popularity for its effectiveness is the Feed, Play, Sleep routine.
What is the Feed, Play, Sleep Routine?
The Feed, Play, Sleep (FPS) routine is a structured approach to organising your baby's day. It revolves around the core activities of feeding, playing and sleeping, forming a predictable pattern that promotes better sleep and overall well-being for both parents and infants.
What are the benefits of the Feed, Play, Sleep Routine?
Consistency is the cornerstone of the FPS routine, and its benefits extend beyond just sleep patterns. Establishing a routine provides a sense of predictability for both parents and infants, contributing to better sleep, enhanced bonding and improved overall well-being. As parents, having a structured newborn routine can also offer a sense of control and make caregiving more manageable.
Understanding the ‘Feed’ Phase
The ‘Feed’ phase is the initial step in the Feed, Play, Sleep routine. Whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, recognising hunger cues and establishing a feeding schedule are key components. For breastfeeding months and bottle-feeding parents, ensuring a comfortable and calm environment that is free from distractions is crucial.
Engaging in the ‘Play’ Phase
Play is not just fun; it's a crucial aspect of infant development. The ‘Play’ phase in the Feed, Play, Sleep routine promotes cognitive and motor development. Tailor playtime activities based on your baby's age, incorporating interactive engagement to stimulate their senses. From tummy time for newborns to exploring colourful toys for older infants, play is a cornerstone in nurturing your baby's growth.
Navigating the Sleep Phase
Creating a calm and soothing sleep environment is essential during the ‘Sleep’ phase of the Feed, Play, Sleep routine. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine, such as a warm bath followed by story time or gentle lullabies, can signal to your baby that it's time to wind down. Address common sleep challenges like night waking or difficulty falling asleep by implementing soothing techniques such as the 5 S’s and gradually introducing age appropriate and SIDS safe sleep associations like a cuddly when ready.
Adjust the Feed, Play, Sleep Routine for different ages
The Feed, Play, Sleep routine evolves as your baby grows and develops. For newborns, shorter waking periods and more frequent feeds may be the norm, while older infants may have longer play and sleep durations. Tailor the routine to the specific needs and milestones of different age groups, adapting as your baby progresses from a tiny newborn to an active toddler.
Tips for the Feed, Play, Sleep Routine
Implementing the Feed, Play, Sleep routine may come with challenges. Parents often encounter issues like sleep regression, teething troubles or difficulties during feeding. In such instances, troubleshooting becomes essential. Maintain flexibility, adjust the routine when necessary, and seek solutions that align with your baby's needs. Remember, parenting is a dynamic journey, and the Feed, Play, Sleep routine is a tool to guide you, not a rigid framework.
The Feed, Play, Sleep routine serves as a compass in navigating the uncharted waters of infant care. Beyond its immediate benefits in promoting healthy sleep patterns and overall well-being, establishing a routine from an early age can set the foundation for lifelong habits. Tailor the routine to fit your family dynamics, embracing the flexibility it offers. Remember that each baby is unique, and your intuition as a parent is a valuable guide. The Feed, Play, Sleep routine is more than a schedule; it's a framework for building a nurturing and balanced daily routine for your little one.
