Have you finally achieved that nap routine for your little one? Congratulations! However, the thought of leaving the house and disrupting that carefully crafted schedule may be causing some anxiety. The good news is that with a bit of planning and flexibility, you can still maintain your baby's nap routine while you're out of the house.
Variance is possible!Try the 80/20 rule: aim for consistency in their nap schedule about 80 percent of the time, allowing for flexibility and adaptability in the remaining 20 percent. This approach strikes a balance between maintaining a routine and accommodating occasional changes in your schedule.
Plan around nap windowsConsider the timing of your outing and plan your activities around your baby's nap times when possible. Prioritize the first nap of the day, as it tends to be the most restorative.
Make naps on the go countIf your baby falls asleep while you're out and about, try to make those naps on the go count. Aim for at least one full sleep cycle, which is typically around 45 minutes to an hour. Remember that moving a sleeping baby from a car seat or stroller to their crib mid-nap is often unsuccessful. It's best to roll with it and adjust baby’s schedule accordingly.
Understand that not every nap will go according to plan, and that's okay. Babies are adaptable, and occasional disruptions won't derail their sleep patterns. Outings are important for their development and your social needs, too!