Preparing your child's sleep routine for the arrival of a new sibling

As parents and relatives eagerly await the arrival of a new baby, there's a whirlwind of excitement and preparation in the air. From setting up the nursery to stocking up on nappies, the to-do list can seem endless. However, amidst all the hustle and bustle, it can be easy to underestimate the value of preparing any other children for the changes ahead, especially when it comes to their sleep routine.

Why is preparing your child's sleep routine important?

Introducing a new sibling can be a significant adjustment for your child, especially when it comes to sleep. Disrupted sleep patterns not only affect your child's mood and behaviour but can also impact their overall well-being. By proactively preparing your child's sleep routine for the arrival of a new sibling, you can help ease the transition and ensure a smoother adjustment period for everyone involved.

Tips for ensuring a smooth transition

1. Start early

It's undoubtedly beneficial to start preparing your child for the new sibling's arrival as early as possible. Gradually introduce changes to their sleep routine, such as adjusting bedtime or nap schedules, to help them adapt seamlessly when the baby arrives. If your child is currently co-sleeping with you bear in mind that The Lullaby Trust recommends against having other children in the bed alongside a baby, so it is worth considering whether your baby will be sleeping in a bedside cot or whether it is time to start moving your child to sleeping independently in their own bed.

2. Maintain consistency

By ensuring your child has a consistent bedtime routine, bedtime and wake-up time you provide a sense of stability and predictability for your child. Consistent routines can help children feel secure and reduce anxiety during times of change. If your child is currently used to just one parent doing this with them, if possible practice in advance with whoever will be looking after them whilst you are delivering their sibling.

3. Involve your child

Engage your child in the preparation process by involving them in setting up the new baby's room or choosing baby items. This can help them feel included and excited about the new addition to the family, fostering a sense of connection that can positively impact their sleep routine. Ask them what they think the new baby will need and enjoy.

4. Address any concerns

Encourage open communication with your child and address any concerns or fears they may have about the upcoming changes. Sometimes young children's worries can seem trivial to adults, but in their world their worries can be huge and overwhelming. Create a safe space for them to express their emotions and offer reassurance to alleviate any anxiety that may be impacting their sleep or other areas of their life.

5. Ensure parent-child bonding time

With a new baby on the way, it's crucial to carve out special one-on-one time with your child to maintain your bond. Playing together, reading a bedtime story, or simply talking about their day can strengthen your connection and provide your child with the attention they need during this period of change. The importance of this bonding time will likely grow when their new sibling arrives home, so if you have any help available during these early days utilise it to help you carve out some special one-to-one time with your child; it doesn't need to be anything fancy, just cuddling up and chatting, playing or reading a book will help your older child/ren feel loved and included.

6. Watch the timing of any big changes

If you need your child to move rooms or vacate their cot to make way for the baby then try to do this at least three months in advance, or three+ months after their sibling's arrival. Set it up as a step purely for them. If they need to move room, get them involved in sorting their new room and choosing where things could go. If they need to move out of their cot, check out my article on this to help ensure a smooth transition for you all.

Preparing your child's sleep routine for the arrival of a new sibling is an essential part of ensuring a smooth transition for your family. By starting early, maintaining consistency, involving your child, addressing concerns, and establishing parent-child bonding time, you can help your child adjust to the changes ahead with confidence and ease. If you find yourself in a position where your child is struggling to sleep independently and you would like help with this ahead of your baby arriving, check out our range of Sleep Packages.