Teaching babies the difference between day & night

Teaching babies the difference between day and night can be a bit of a challenge until their body clock kicks in. However it's something you can easily help them learn from just a few weeks old.  
 
Whilst it’s not possible to establish a routine when your baby is very young, there are things you can do to separate day and night activities.

In the long run it will also mean you will both start to get more sleep.

 

3 Ways to teach babies the difference between day & night

 

1. Absorb natural light

Take your baby outside at least once a day to see the light of day and to feel the fresh air on their skin.

If you’re having one of those days where leaving the house seems like the biggest task imaginable, just make sure there are lots of bright lights on or the windows are open with light filling the room.
 

2. Act differently

Try using different types of interaction for night and day to create clear distinctions between the two for your baby.

At night time, you can use blackout blinds to make sure their room remains dark and try to keep noise to a minimum, so you have a calming, quiet atmosphere.
 
When your baby wakes for a night feed, dim the lights or use a side lamp to keep the room as dark as possible. If you have to talk, talk in hushed tones.

It’s also best to avoid changing your baby’s nappy unless necessary, but if you do so stick to the same rules, dim lights and little to no talking.
 
During the day, don’t worry about clattering around and making a noise. Carry on with your activities while your baby sleeps.

You baby needs to get used to sleeping despite noise, light and commotion around them. The last thing you need is a light sleeper!
 

3. Start a routine

While a full daily routine may be a bit soon, there’s nothing wrong with some consistent bedtime habits.

For instance, before your little one sleeps at night, you could try changing their clothes and maybe bathing your baby to help soothe them and to show that the day’s activities are over and it’s time for the night to start.
 

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