[flashvideo file=http://s3.amazonaws.com/Birth/BabyandInfantGuide.flv image=http://s3.amazonaws.com/Birth/Baby-Nursery-Furniture.gif /]

Parents of newborns frequently find themselves at the point of exhaustion. Parenting is hard work for Baby and Infant Care, and in order to survive it is important to develop a routine. Even infants can learn to value routine, as it brings structure to their day and enables them to anticipate what is next on the schedule.

One such routine (popularized by Tracy Hogg in “Secrets of the Baby Whisperer”) forms the acronym E.A.S.Y., which stands for Eat, Awake, Sleep and You. If you are the parent of an infant, you could benefit by implementing this routine into the schedule for you and your child.

Eat – For newborns, the rule is to feed the baby on demand. In other words, feed them when they are hungry. Many infants, however, tend to fall asleep as they are being fed. To avoid this, begin to feed them shortly after they wake up. If your baby still tends to nod off, you can try to keep him or her awake by using some gentle tickling, by blowing on his or her face, or by applying a cold damp cloth. You could also cause stimulation by changing his or her position, by talking to your child, or by using bright lighting.

Awake – The reason you want to keep your baby from falling asleep while eating is to allow for a playtime afterward. This may only last ten to fifteen minutes at first, but will increase over time. The baby has just been fed, so he or she should be able to play contently. For newborns, parents need to be actively involved in this playtime. You could make use of music, give a stroller ride through the neighborhood, or provide visual stimulation with toys, mobiles, or appropriate household items. As the baby begins to develop motor skills, he or she will be able to play unaided by a parent. Alternatively, you could use a sling or a baby carrier to take your baby with you as you putter around the house. Babies enjoy the vantage point and the changing scenery.

Sleep – After a period of play, the baby will be ready for sleep. They have used up some excess energy and will hopefully rest peacefully. It is common for a newborn to sleep for about sixteen to eighteen hours per day, three or four hours at a time. By the time your baby is six or seven months of age, it is likely that he or she will sleep seven to ten hours through the night and will have two naps during the day. When your baby is ready to sleep through the night, you will want to add an extra feeding shortly before bedtime.

You – As your newborn sleeps, it is time for you to focus on you. You should take advantage of this quiet time to rest. Many parents use this time to take a nap themselves, but you may also choose to unwind with a good book, relax with a cup of coffee, or catch up with a friend. This is your time, so use it wisely. It is important that this “you” time refuels and rejuvenates you. Your baby will wake up soon, and the routine will begin again so incorporate this into yourBaby and Infant Care .

By following this E.A.S.Y. routine, and by making necessary adjustments as your child ages, you will be able to survive your baby’s infancy. This rhythm can help you maintain your sanity and enjoy the new addition to your family with your Baby and Infant Care.