Working with a mix of first-time parents and those who are not, I've noticed something.

Those with older children naturally end up with their new-born settling into a (even just a little bit) predictable routine simply because there's already an outline of one in place! 

While their older sibling may have woken at the same ungodly time each morning, when it was just baby and mum, they could extend the night and go back to sleep - after a feed and snuggle of course - until 10am...or whenever! 

Whereas, now, when the 2, 3, 4 or 5 year old wakes at 7 and demands breakfast, needs to get to nursery or school, the baby has to start the day.

• 7:30 feed while toddler wakes up/child gets dressed 

• 8:30 back to sleep on the nursery/school run

Etc. etc. You see where I'm going?

In the evening, baby may nap while you do the nursery/school pick-up, and you may bathe the children at the same time and do a wind-down routine with the baby before or after you've tucked up the bigger one.

A routine doesn't have to be strict - it's just a familiar pattern and sequence of events and this can emerge naturally with older children in the house.

So, something I suggest to first-time parents who are struggling, and feel a rough routine would help, that they imagine they have an existing routine to get up for. It may not be another child but it could be a pet they have to get up and feed, a morning walk that they decide they'll do every day at around the same time...

Have a think...What could you create your routine around? Simply start with choosing a start and end time to the 'day': opening the curtains, making your cup of tea, changing from pyjamas to tracksuit bottoms (or different pyjamas) etc. and a little routine in the evening.

I'd love to hear how you've created routine with your little one and, if you need help, don't hesitate to get in touch!