A definition of routine is – A sequence of actions that is regularly followed.
The definition of schedule is- a list of planned activities or things to be done at a particular time.
Routines associated with sleep are:
- Rocking
- Feeding
- Swaddling
- White noise
- Taking baby into bed after waking
- Reading a book before bed
- Massage
- Sleeping bag
- Using a dummy
Schedules are based only on time, such as:
- Bedtime
- Feeding times
- Time to start bathing
- Awake time
- Length of feeds
- Length of naps
Routines can create more flexibility. You have no time constraints.
If you have a routine it’s easier to visit friends, and family, go on holiday or have others look after your baby.
Routines create patterns and habits.
So it’s important to know that routines can work for or against you and may be very challenging. But seeing they are flexible can be altered to work in your best interest. If you are using a schedule, it will be harder to implement change.
They are often rigid, may be less flexible, and more prone to creating anxiety because of the time constraint you are placing yourself on.
This is why I steer away from many baby apps because they are based on schedules not routines. Want to know more about helping your baby sleep better, Ebook