Setting a Schedule for Baby Nash

I know there are a lot of people out there who think that you should follow a baby's schedule, especially when they are young.  I also know there are those out there who adamantly insist that you need to get baby on a schedule for your sake.  I think I am taking the middle ground.  Here's why:

My best friend from high school, Kristi, had a baby last February.  I believe we are similar people and so value her opinion on mothering as much or more than anyone else out there.  So when she suggested a book to me about sleeping, I ordered it from Amazon right away.  The book is called "The No-Cry Sleep Solution" by Elizabeth Pantley.  It's premise is that a lot of people say the only way to get your baby to sleep through the night is to prevent them from relying on you for comfort..which is done by having them "cry it out."  Having spent a few nights here with Joe at work and the baby crying for hours, I know I am not capable of this.  It all seems to cruel and counter-productive.  This book suggests that although this may work because the baby gets so exhausted and "gives up,"  that this is detrimental in the long run.  Is my sleep worth their sense of security??  No way.

Image from Amazon

So, I have been diligently reading the book and taking notes.  The best thing I have absorbed so far is the need for a schedule. A "gentle" schedule aimed at maximizing baby's awake and asleep times.  So, on that note, I have begun to adhere to a semi-flexible nighttime schedule.  Here is my plan:

• Encourage baby to take 3 1-2 hour naps during the day (this prevents him from being overtired)
• Bath/diaper change/pajamas at 7:30 pm
• Cuddling/Googling with Momma until ~ 8pm
• Nurse/rock until he falls asleep at ~ 8:30 pm (Repeat as needed if he wakes up)

We are on day two of the experiment and tonight went much better than last night.  Both night's have been a success, but it was much more smooth tonight.  Last night he woke up every hour to nurse too, so hoping that will not happen tonight.   I was a zombie today, so cross your fingers!  The book says it will take about two weeks for the routine to really be effective, so I just have to stick to it.  Will keep you posted on whether or not it works.  In the meantime, if you have/had a baby and found a routine that worked, leave me a comment and let me know.  Maybe your tip will be my lifesaver!!