Tip of the Week: Naptime for Mommies

As a new mother, you can only hope that someone has an answer for
sleep-deprived parents. Unfortunately, there isn't really a single solution.
What works for one mom might not work for another, depending on her
lifestyle and the temperament and health of her child. There is so much
information, and it can be even more overwhelming than the lack of sleep!

You'll have to wait until Sept. 15 to hear Dr. Weissbluth's solutions when
he speaks at Bubbles Academy, but in the meantime, I thought I'd turn to
another expert source, The Mayo Clinic <http://www.mayoclinic.com/>. Here
are some of its suggestions for beating sleep deprivation and reclaiming
your sanity:

Sleep when your baby sleeps. Turn off the ringer on the phone, hide the
laundry, ignore the dishes in the kitchen sink. These things can wait!

Set aside your hospitality. When friends and family visit, don't feel
pressure to be a hostess. Let them care for the baby while you excuse
yourself for some much-needed rest. Believe me, they will understand.

I wholeheartedly believe that you should quickly reclaim your bedroom. At
first, you may feel more secure sharing a bedroom with your baby —
especially if you're breast-feeding. But if your baby's crying, squirming
and restlessness keep you awake, separate rooms may be the key to sound
sleep and a sound marriage.

Adjust the baby monitor. Lying in bed listening to your baby's every
movement may be just as disruptive as having your baby in the room. Change
the volume based on how loudly your baby cries.

Share nighttime duties. Work out a schedule with your spouse that allows
both of you to rest and care for the baby. If you're breast-feeding, perhaps
your partner could bring you the baby and handle nighttime diaper changes.
If you're using a bottle, take turns on feedings.

Wait and see. I know it is difficult, but sometimes, middle-of-the-night
fussing or crying is simply a sign that your baby is settling in. Unless you
suspect that the baby is hungry or uncomfortable, it's OK to wait a few
minutes to see what happens.

Ask for help when you need it. Take advantage of baby-sitting offers from
trusted friends or loved ones. You don't need to go out — simply head to
your bedroom and close the door. It is important to spend time taking care
of yourself as well!