When it was time to teach my daughter to sleep though the night, I became a student of baby sleep. (LOL) I’m willing to admit that my INFJ self may have taken this more seriously than most. But no matter what personality type you have, sleep creates harmony and balance in the household.
I’ve always loved my daughter’s nighttime routine because it’s the only time of day she is somewhat calm. I still have to wrestle her to get her dressed. But for the most part I catch her gazing into my eyes, willingly accepting her ultimate fait of falling asleep. I cherish these few moments a day when she allows herself to collapse in my arms.
Recently I found that music adds a new dimension to our time together. It also helps soothe her on fussy nights.
So as a follow up from my last blog, Getting the “Cry it Out” Method to Actually Work I wanted to share a nighttime playlist I’ve been using. It takes a special kind of song to calm her down when she tries to let out that last burst of energy, and these have all made the cut. The list starts out a tad more upbeat and ends with songs that will have both mom and baby in total relaxation mode!
1. “X.O.” – John Mayer (Beyoncé Cover)
Yes, even babies go nuts for John Mayer’s guitar. There’s just something about him singing this song that’s so sweet and easy on the ears.
2. “Ophelia” – The Lumineers
The bouncy chorus and laid back vibe of “Ophelia” is baby approved.
3. “Coming Home” – Leon Bridges
“Coming Home” and Bridges’ style in general transform me to another time/dimension. Whatever planet he’s on, it’s a happy place.
4. “You Could Be Happy” – Snow Patrol
Speaking of happy, this song catches my daughter’s attention right off the bat for those extra fussy nights. Give it three seconds and you’ll see why. (:
5. “Piece by Piece” – Kelly Clarkson (Idol Version)
OK, maybe this one is more for mom. It’s raw and emotional, but it reminds me how thankful I am for my daughter as we close out another day together.
6.“I See Fire” – Ed Sheeran
If baby is fussy, the music really has to hold her attention. This Ed Sheeran song is slow but powerful at the same time.
7. “Million Reasons” – Lady Gaga
Listening to Gaga’s vulnerable tone coupled with the instrumental in “Million Reasons” kind of feels like going to church.
8. “Dancing on My Own” – Calum Scott
This is a good one to pick baby up and rock her to.
9. “Oblivion” – Bastille
Turn the volume up and close your eyes!!!
10. “The Scientist” – Coldplay
I have one word for this song: magical. Everything about it from start to finish will suck you in if you let it. And babies have no choice.
It’s difficult to find just the right combination of relaxing and captivating. When I think I have a good one, I test it on a fussy night. If she ignores the song and keeps fussing, it’s a no go. I’ll let y’all know as I make additions!
Remember, put baby down full, comfortable, relaxed and AWAKE so she can lean to soothe herself to sleep.
Let me know if any of these songs work for you like they do for us. I’d also love to hear YOUR MAGICAL SONGS. For DM, email me at stephanie@theintrovertedmom.com