Babies and Routine
Is it important to have a routine?
Establishing routines with your baby is often a personal and individual choice. For some having a more structured routine may make the day more manageable and organised while for others trying to stick to a routine can be overwhelming and daunting.
Whether or not you do try to establish a routine it is important to remember that your baby is not always predictable and can change their own patterns frequently.
You may feel that having a routine allows you to get things done or have some time for yourself but equally if you try to stick rigidly to a routine you may limit you opportunities for getting out of the house and seeing other people.
I found that I would not go to my mothers coffee group because I was trying so hard to keep my son in a good routine. Then, I realised how important it was for me to get out and see other mothers and have a chat, Sarah.
Sometimes if you are coping with depression it may be easier to forget about routine and instead try and work out which parts of the day are better or worse for you and plan your activities to these. Some routines for yourself are helpful for depression (see section under Treatment on biopsychosocial rhythms).
Patterns or repetition in the way of doing things help babies to recognise what is happening to them and what may happen next, it gives them a sense of predictability and security.
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