I hear many new parents express remorse over how they don’t get time for themselves or their relationship anymore.
And the truth is recent studies concluded that non-parents are happier than parents.
But when I ask what’s holding them back the most I often get these answers, because it’s… “during nap time”, “too late”, “too early”, “at the same time as ___ “… etc.
So I wanted to share a small but mighty through that might just ease the pressure and allow more “fun” time back into our lives (even as parents).
A break in routine can be as beneficial to a child’s development as the routine itself!
I don’t know about about you, but I am not exactly eager to wake up at 7am on the weekends. So we might stay up a little later than usual on Friday night, go to bed aound 11pm (including the toddler) and then, if all goes well, have the luxury of sleeping in a little longer Saturday morning.
But I understand, not all babies get the memo. Sometimes, a later bedtime just leads to an overtired, cranky baby who still wakes up early, making for a long and fussy day.
That’s why introducing occasional breaks in routine early on can be so beneficial! my unprofessional suggestion is to introduce these breaks in routine as early as possible. It helps your baby adapt to small changes, making them less likely to wake up at the same time every morning like clockwork or become unsettled whenever their schedule shifts.
Over all allowing for breaks in routine, just might make your life easier, not only by giving you a little piece of mind, but also ….
1. Make weekends more fun allowing for more weekend opportunity and connection with friends
2. Make your baby more adaptable and comfortable with change (making your life easier in the long run). Introducing variety teaches babies to adapt to new situations, which is an essential skill as they grow.
3. Allow for more opportunity for quality time: instead of being stuck to your routine during the weekends, your whole world opens up. Without worry of routine, you now have the freedom to do something fun as a couple (plus baby) or with your baby (trip to the zoo, beach etc.). Breaks provide opportunities for quality time with caregivers, enhancing emotional connections.
4. Improves your mood. Knowing a break in routine is still a positive element to a babies life, you can connect with friends or your just partner guilt free! Which will improve your mood and in turn, improve your parenting, and relationships. But on top of that a break in routine can help prevent fussiness or irritability by allowing babies to engage in different activities see new sights and experience new environments which may peak their interest.
5. and finally avoid overstimulation and promote development. Consistent routines can sometimes lead to overstimulation. Breaks help babies reset and calm down, making it easier for them to process their experiences. Changes in routine can also stimulate curiosity and exploration, fostering cognitive and motor development.
Overall, while routines are important for security and help children understand what’s going on in their world, but occasional breaks help ensure a well-rounded and positive experience for babies.
Mama Lifestyle 