Baby & Toddler Schedule’s: Activities Included

Good News Mama,

I have something special for you! I have included baby and toddler schedules I LIVED by throughout my journey as a Mama. If I am honest, I could not have lived without my schedule. I suggest you try a schedule that works with you, then do it! Children need structure; they need routine.

The benefits of establishing a routine are:

1. Your child sees consistency in everyday life, which will bring security.

2. Healthy habits

• • Sleep routines (Their body will sense the time of their bed schedule, and your child will want to sleep.)
  • Emotional security (potential meltdowns and anxiety decrease when they know what is next.)
  • They can manage their emotions when they know what is coming next in their day.

3. Mama, you can narrow out the issue if your child is upset and on a routine.

• • If your child just woke up and is consistently crying, then you can note that they are not tired due to just waking up but could be hungry or thirsty, depending on their routine.

• • A routine is easy for you overall as well.

There are many more benefits to having a routine for your child, but I need to share more. Although I was strict with my schedule, I want to inform you of the realistic reality of implementing a schedule in your everyday life raising little ones.

Take Note:

1. Manage to enjoy the random moments

• • Sometimes, when too focused on being on time, you can dismiss moments from happening that may mean the world to you and your child’s core memory or character. If last minute they want to lay with you for more extended periods of cuddles (even if it is to get out of going to their bed), then do it! {I was the Mama who didn’t believe in co-sleeping due to SIDS, but I wish I was not so fearful and allowed it from time to time. My toddlers do not know how to cuddle, and it is something I try to encourage despite what the clock says.}

• • They grow up fast and are spontaneous.

2. Inclusion is everything.

• • When you have babies, Mama, your world does not stop for them. Your baby can adjust to your needs and everyday life. Depending on your stance, this can work and vice versa.

• • You still want them to evolve into a good night and day routine with wake-up and sleep. You also want to include your child’s basic needs, but if you need to work and cannot find the time to be alone, take your little one with you. Go on walks in the park or use them as motivational fun weights (safely, may I add).

• • It is okay if you are off your schedule; life happens. There will be doctor appointments, errands, and traveling that may come occasionally, but again, that is okay. Try to adjust their naps and mealtimes in the same order as their schedule as much as you can so that they are not too thrown off. Either way, you will both be okay!

3. You can have a schedule but do not be too strict with time.

• • I learned that trying to meet each time listed on the dot became overbearing and stressful. Doctors and research have revealed that although babies and toddlers need a routine, they can work around 30-minute increments of delay or early starts. (Please do not overwhelm yourself with the time.)

• • The stricter you are, the less patient and more anxious you can become, which can become stressful for you and your child.

Now, here is the schedule I promised you!