Newborn Routines

What to expect

• Anything you do consistently can be considered a routine. 
• Newborns and their needs change rapidly so being flexible throughout your day will help you respond to what your baby is showing you. 
• It can take your baby several months to get used to a new routine, so be patient and support them as best you can while they adjust.  

Creating a Routine That Works for Your Family

1. Focus on Baby-Led Patterns: Newborns don’t yet have a concept of day and night. Work towards understanding and responding to your baby’s cues for feeding, sleeping, and the need for comfort. 
2. Start Simple: Use small, consistent actions like a calming bath, soft lighting, or singing at bedtime.  
3. Balance Activity and Rest: Newborns are awake for short periods between naps (typically 1-2 hours). Use this time for gentle interactions, tummy time, or cuddles and a feed before helping them settle for their next nap. 

Flexibility is key

Any routine needs to be flexible as circumstances can change. For example, on a hot day your baby may need an extra feed.  

Sometimes short-term changes are needed, for example your child is unwell, teething or you are travelling or returning to work. When the short-term change is over, begin putting the routine back in place when possible – this will take consistency and time.  

Example Routines for Newborns

Every family is different and with patience, you’ll find what works for you. We recommend following a Feed – Play – Sleep cycle which can guide your routine without being restrictive. 

Below is an example routine of how Feed – Play – Sleep could be applied, but it is by no means a strict guide to be followed. Every baby is unique.

Morning:

• Wake and Feed: Start the day with a feed. Follow up with cuddles or tummy time.
• Nap: Babies at this age may nap every 1-2 hours.

Midday:

• Feed and Interact: Offer another feed, then engage in soothing play or outdoor time in the shade.
• Nap: Another nap follows, usually lasting 1-2 hours.

Evening:

• Bath and Wind Down: Introduce a calming bath or baby massage to signal the end of the day.
• Feed and Settle: Offer a final feed before bed.

Overnight:

• Feeds as Needed: Newborns often wake every 2-4 hours for feeding. Keep the environment dim and quiet to encourage them to resettle.

Tips for Establishing Newborn Routines

• Respond to Cues: Watch for hunger signs (rooting, sucking hands) and tired cues (yawning, looking away). 
• Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment: Keep the sleeping area quiet with dim lighting, use a firm mattress free of loose bedding, toys or pillows 
• Be Flexible: Your baby’s needs will change rapidly. Adjust the routine as they grow and develop. 
• Include Play in your day: this helps your baby to develop and learn. Your facial expressions and soft voice can be all you need to engage with your newborn. Watch for tired signs after play, this could be a great time for a nap!