Making the most of your baby's routine

Out and about

The world outside can provide wonderful stimulation for your baby, and you may rediscover things through him that you had previously taken for granted. Shapes, colours, sounds, changing seasons and weather conditions will all be a source of wonder to your baby. So try to see the world through his eyes whenever you have the opportunity to get out and about together.

In good weather, half an hour or so in the garden or park playing on a rug and exploring the different textures around you will be amongst the most rewarding times you'll spend together. These times are particularly valuable whenever you're feeling a bit down or overwhelmed by the responsibility and sheer hard work of parenthood. Get down to your baby's level and see things from his perspective. Smell and touch the grass or point out harmless insects.

Bath and bed times

Bath time, especially as part of the pre-bed routine, should be a time when your baby relaxes and begins to wind down. It won't always be like this, of course. There will be days when you give your baby a quick splash as he screams his head off. But the more tranquil bath times can be pure joy for both of you.

Get into the bath with your baby and enjoy the skin contact and the soothing sensation of the warm water at the same time. If you were lucky enough to have a gentle water birth, bathing together should bring the euphoria flooding back, and you'll relive that bonding process again.

The end of your baby's day will be his last feed before bed, so make sure you have a comfy chair and cushion available, preferably in your dimly-lit, cosy bedroom, and indulge in the pleasure of a sleepy cuddle before you settle him for the night. It's another good opportunity to sing or talk in soothing tones and, providing your baby is relaxed and ready for sleep, can help you to unwind for the evening ahead, too.