How to Create a Daily Baby Schedule

Decide whether you want a baby-led or a parent-led schedule. A baby-led schedule requires following the baby's cues to determine feeding, playing and sleeping times. According to Baby Center, a baby will settle into a predictable schedule within a few weeks. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a baby-led feeding schedule. A parent-led schedule relies on schedules designed by infant development experts, based on developmental appropriateness. Advocates of parent-led schedules claim babies will sleep through the night sooner, and will have more security. Some parents prefer a combination of baby- and parent-led scheduling, to allow their infant some freedom within daily routines.

Read about how often your baby should be sleeping, playing and eating according to his age at www.babycenter.com, or in baby books. Newborns will need around 16 hours of sleep daily. Your one- to three-month old baby will sleep roughly 15 hours daily. Four- to seven-month old babies have widely ranging sleep needs. The average daily amount of sleep is 14 hours. Older babies, eight to 12 months old, sleep an average of 13 hours per day. Generally babies require 2 ½ ounces of formula per pound of weight, per day. Offer formula or breastmilk at least every two to three hours for newborns, and every three to four hours for older infants. Allow time in your schedule for solid food feeding for babies over six months old. All babies should have periods of play and social interaction after waking from sleep. You should also check with your child's pediatrician for guidance. Regardless of the type of schedule you use, your baby must have enough sleep, food and time to play to meet developmental milestones.

Track your baby's natural schedule. Spend a few days recording your baby's cues. Use a computer spreadsheet, or the form found at babycenter.com (see Resources) to discover what your baby prefers.

Implement a regular bedtime routine. According to Baby Center, establishing a bedtime routine is the most important first step to creating a schedule. Follow the same routine every night, so your infant will learn what to expect.

Create a definitive difference in nighttime and daytime baby care. During nighttime feedings and diaper changes, make interaction with your child minimal. Reinforce to your baby that nighttime is sleeping time. Only change soiled diapers, keep lighting low, and don't play with the baby. Establish that daytime is play time.