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Een rustige en voorspelbare avondroutine is misschien wel de meest onderschatte slaaptip. Het klinkt als iets simpels, maar heeft een heel groot effect. Een fijne avondroutine hoeft helemaal niet lang of ingewikkeld te zijn. Het belangrijkste is dat je kindje weet wat er gaat gebeuren en de kans krijgt om stap voor stap van de drukte van de dag naar de rust van de nacht te schakelen. En dat je daar als ouder de volledige aandacht voor hebt. Want hoe die avond verloopt, begint eigenlijk al veel eerder: de prikkels van een hele dag spelen en ontdekken bepalen mede hoe makkelijk je kindje 's avonds tot rust komt. Maar wat maakt een avondroutine nu echt prettig en wat kun je beter achterwege laten? Wij zetten de belangrijkste punten voor je op een rij.Waarom een avondroutine belangrijk is Overdag krijgt je kindje ontzettend veel prikkels te verwerken. Spelen, ontdekken, eten, praten, bewegen en alles wat er om hem heen gebeurt. Daarom is het belangrijk dat je kindje de kans krijgt om zijn of haar hoofdje weer rustig te krijgen voordat ze naar bed gaan. Hierdoor kan je kindje makkelijker in slaap vallen.Een herkenbare avondroutine helpt je kindje om te voorspellen wat er komt. En voorspelbaarheid zorgt voor veiligheid. Veiligheid zorgt er vervolgens weer voor dat je kindje makkelijker in slaap kan vallen. Niet alleen voor je kindje is een vaste, herkenbare avondroutine fijn, ook voor jou als ouder is een vaste routine prettig. Je hoeft niet iedere avond opnieuw te onderhandelen over de volgorde of te bedenken wat er nog moet gebeuren.Een hele dag spelen en ontdekken: wat doet dat met slaap?Voor een kindje is bijna alles nieuw. Een wandeling, een bezoekje aan opa en oma, een dagje op de opvang, een nieuw geluid of een nieuw speeltje: het is allemaal leuk en leerzaam, maar het vraagt ook veel van dat kleine hoofdje. Alle indrukken van de dag moeten verwerkt worden, en een groot deel daarvan gebeurt tijdens de slaap.Spelen en ontdekken horen dus bij een goede dag én bij een goede nacht. Een dag vol beweging, daglicht en nieuwe ervaringen helpt je kindje om 's avonds ook echt moe te worden. Maar het gaat om de balans. Een dag die vol zit met prikkels kan ervoor zorgen dat je kindje aan het eind van de dag overprikkeld raakt. Je ziet dat vaak terug in huilerig, druk of juist hangerig gedrag, en het kan het inslapen lastiger maken of zorgen voor een onrustigere nacht.Zo houd je overdag de balans:• Wissel actieve en rustige momenten afEen rustig moment thuis na een leuk uitstapje of een drukke ochtend zorgt voor een goede balans tussen nieuwe prikkels en rust.• Kijk naar het totaalHet gaat niet alleen om de grote dingen. Voor ons is boodschappen doen misschien even een snelle stop, maar voor een kindje een uitje opzich.• Plan ook overdag rust inDutjes en rustmomenten helpen je kindje om prikkels tussendoor te verwerken, zodat niet alles pas 's avonds naar boven komt.• Ga naar buitenDaglicht en beweging helpen het slaapritme van je kindje en geven alle ruimte om te ontdekken.• Stem je avond af op je dagWas het een dag vol spelen en ontdekken? Dan mag de avondroutine gerust wat eerder beginnen.Wat maakt een goede avondroutine?Houd de volgorde voorspelbaarHet hoeft geen strak schema op de minuut te zijn. Een vaste volgorde is belangrijker dan een exact tijdstip. Bijvoorbeeld: opruimen, wassen of in bad, pyjama aan, tandenpoetsen, boekje lezen en naar bed. Je kindje leert zo de signalen herkennen die bij bedtijd horen.Bouw de avond rustig afGeef je kindje de tijd om af te schakelen. Kies in het laatste halfuur voor rustigere activiteiten en vermijd wilde spelletjes vlak voor bedtijd. Een boekje lezen, samen knuffelen of rustig praten zijn voorbeelden van activiteiten die passen bij deze overgang.Beperk prikkelsFel licht, veel geluid en druk spel maken het lastiger om van actief naar rustig te schakelen. Dim waar mogelijk het licht en houd de slaapkamer rustig. Schermen kun je in het laatste deel van de avond beter achterwege laten. We adviseren in elk geval één uur voor bedtijd geen schermen meer aan te hebben staan. Was het een drukke dag vol spelen en ontdekken? Dan helpt het extra om de avond overzichtelijk en rustig te houden.Houd het ritueel kort en haalbaarEen avondroutine hoeft geen programma van een uur te zijn. Sterker nog: hoe langer de routine, hoe groter de kans dat er ruimte ontstaat voor uitstelgedrag. Kies een paar vaste onderdelen die bij jullie passen en houd het overzichtelijk. Een kort, herkenbaar ritueel werkt vaak beter dan een lange reeks activiteiten.Geef je kindje kleine keuzesEen vaste routine betekent niet dat je kindje nergens over mag beslissen. Juist kleine keuzes kunnen helpen om de overgang soepeler te laten verlopen. Bijvoorbeeld: 'Wil je de blauwe of de groene pyjama aan?' of 'Zullen we één of twee boekjes lezen?' Jij bepaalt de kaders, je kindje krijgt daarbinnen wat regie.Kijk naar je kindje, niet alleen naar de klokEen vaste bedtijd is handig, maar kinderen zijn geen robots. Kijk ook naar signalen van vermoeidheid. Wordt je kindje hangerig, prikkelbaar, drukker of juist stiller? Dan kan het verstandig zijn om eerder aan de avondroutine te beginnen. Wacht je te lang, dan kan je kindje juist oververmoeid raken en moeilijker tot rust komen.Smoesjes tijdens bedtijdNog een slokje water. Nog een knuffel. Nog een verhaaltje. Nog even plassen. Zodra een kindje doorheeft dat er na 'welterusten' nog van alles mogelijk is, kan het bedtijdritueel eindeloos worden. Probeer daarom duidelijk te zijn over wat onderdeel is van de routine en wat daarna niet meer gebeurt. Je kunt bijvoorbeeld vooraf zeggen: 'We lezen twee boekjes, daarna gaat het licht uit.' Vervolgens houd je je rustig en consequent aan die afspraak.Van drukke dag naar rustige nachtEen fijne avondroutine draait uiteindelijk om drie dingen: voorspelbaarheid, weinig prikkels en voldoende tijd om af te schakelen. Je hoeft daarvoor geen uitgebreid ritueel te bedenken. Een paar vaste stappen die iedere avond ongeveer hetzelfde verlopen, kunnen al veel rust geven. Houd er ook rekening mee dat de avond niet los staat van de dag: hoe meer je kindje overdag heeft gespeeld en ontdekt, hoe meer rust het 's avonds nodig heeft.Maak het dus vooral niet ingewikkelder dan nodig. Samen opruimen, pyjama aan, tandenpoetsen, een boekje en een knuffel. Daarna is het tijd om te slapen. Juist die herhaling maakt bedtijd voor je kindje herkenbaar en vertrouwd.Tamara & Glynis van Slaapkops

Je kindje is lekker aan het spelen en jij kijkt op de klok: tijd voor het middagdutje. Je weet dat het slapen moeizaam verloopt als je je kindje abrupt uit zijn spel haalt. Maar je wilt je kindje ook niet te laat naar bed brengen, want dan valt hij juist ook weer lastiger in slaap. Hoe pak je dit aan, en hoe zorg je dat het overgangsmoment van spelen naar slapen soepel verloopt, zodat je kindje heerlijk kan spelen EN slapen?Waar wij als volwassenen vrij makkelijk schakelen van actief naar rustig, moet een baby of peuter dat nog leren. Jonge kinderen zijn nog nauwelijks in staat om hun eigen opwinding zelf af te remmen. Zonder jouw hulp blijft het lichaam vaak in een verhoogde staat van alertheid, met meer cortisol, een hogere hartslag en een drukker hoofd. Geen ideale basis om in slaap te vallen. Precies daarom is een overgangsmoment tussen spelen en slapen zo belangrijk. Zo help je je kindje om makkelijker en rustiger over te schakelen.Waarom een overgangsmoment zo belangrijk isEen rustige en voorspelbare overgang voor het slapen draagt bij aan sneller inslapen en minder nachtelijk wakker worden. Het lichaam heeft even de tijd nodig om van een actieve staat naar een ontspannen staat te gaan. Hoe voorspelbaarder dat verloopt, hoe makkelijker het lichaam leert wat er komen gaat.Je herkent dit misschien ook van jezelf. Als je nog druk in de weer bent geweest en daarna direct naar bed gaat, duurt het langer voor je in slaap valt. Geef je jezelf eerst even de tijd om tot rust te komen, bijvoorbeeld met een warme douche of een boek, dan ben je al in een ontspannen staat en val je rustiger in slaap en slaap je makkelijker door. Jonge kinderen hebben nog meer tijd nodig om te schakelen dan wij, dus voor hen is dit rustmoment nog belangrijker.Tips voor een rustmoment overdagMaar hoe zorg je dat je kindje dit rustmoment goed kan pakken?• Bouw altijd een paar rustige minuten in voor het slapen Stop niet abrupt met spelen om je kindje meteen in bed te leggen. Kies voor een rustmoment van vijf tot tien minuten voor het slapen. Dit rustmoment staat nog los van het bedtijdritueel zelf. Denk aan samen rustig zingen of knuffelen. Dit geeft het zenuwstelsel de tijd om af te remmen. Belangrijk is dat dit rustmoment niet lang hoeft te duren om effect te hebben. Een paar minuten maken al een wereld van verschil.• Dim het licht en beperk de prikkels Fel licht en veel geluid houden het lichaam actief. Vooral blauw licht, zoals van fel wit ledlicht of een scherm, remt de aanmaak van het slaaphormoon melatonine. Doe daarom gordijnen dicht en zet de tv uit. Ook al kijkt je kindje nog niet bewust naar de tv, de prikkels komen wel binnen en zijn vlak voor het slapen lastig te verwerken.• Herhaal steeds dezelfde handelingen voor het slapen Een voorspelbaar patroon, ook overdag, helpt een kindje te begrijpen wat er gaat gebeuren. Overdag mag het bedtijdritueel een ingekorte versie zijn van 's avonds. Denk aan slaapzakje aan, gordijnen dicht en een liedje zingen, waarna je kindje in bed gaat. 's Avonds kan hier bijvoorbeeld nog een badje, een babymassage en het lezen van een boekje aan worden toegevoegd. Voorspelbaarheid zorgt voor veiligheid, en veiligheid geeft rust, waardoor je kindje makkelijker in slaap valt. Kinderen leren zo'n patroon heel snel herkennen, dus voor je het weet heb je samen een fijn nieuw ritueel te pakken.Een fijn slaapzakje kan een herkenbaar onderdeel worden van dit vaste ritueel. In onze categorie slapen vind je alles voor een comfortabel en geborgen slaapmoment.• Houd de vermoeidheidssignalen in de gaten Veel kindjes laten vermoeidheidssignalen zien. Naast dat je natuurlijk een vast ritme en wakkere tijden kunt aanhouden, blijft het allerbelangrijkste om goed naar je kindje te kijken. Laat je kindje eerder dan verwacht vermoeidheidssignalen zien? Breng hem dan wat eerder naar bed. Een kind dat oververmoeid of overprikkeld raakt, heeft daarna meer moeite om tot rust te komen en in slaap te vallen. Wrijven in de oogjes, minder interesse tonen in speelgoed of onrustig worden zijn signalen om op tijd te beginnen met het afbouwen van het spel.Bonustip: doet jouw kindje geen middagdutje meer? Zorg dan toch voor een rustmoment overdag. Leg je kindje bijvoorbeeld met een luisterboekje in bed, of laat hem heerlijk op de bank liggen terwijl er op de achtergrond een rustige meditatie speelt. Zo komt je kindje toch even een beetje tot rust.De weg naar bedtijd rustig afbouwenEen paar minuten rust voor het bedtijdritueel, minder prikkels en een vast patroon zijn vaak al genoeg om van spelen naar slapen een zachte overgang te maken in plaats van een strijd. Volg je deze stappen, dan begin je aan bedtijd met een voorsprong.   Tamara & Glynis van Slaapkops

That first sip from a cup might seem like a small moment, but for your baby, it is a whole new discovery. Holding a cup, placing their lips around the rim, taking a sip and learning how much to drink all require new skills. And honestly? The first attempts probably won't go exactly as planned. Water gets spilled, the cup gets turned upside down, your baby mostly plays with it and sometimes more water ends up on the table than in their mouth. That's all part of it. Learning to drink is a process. Just like learning to walk or eat independently, it takes time and plenty of practice. When can babies start drinking from a cup? From around 6 months, when your baby starts eating solid foods, you can offer water alongside their usual milk feeds. This can also be a good time to introduce drinking from a cup. In the beginning, there is no need to drink large amounts. A few small sips with a meal are enough to practise. Every baby develops at their own pace. Some babies quickly figure out how to hold a cup, while others need more time to get used to the movement and sensation of drinking from a cup. There is no exact age when your baby has to be able to drink from a cup. Think of it as a new skill to discover together. Why choose an open cup? An open cup helps your baby learn a different way of drinking. They practise bringing the cup to their mouth, placing their lips around the rim, controlling the amount of liquid and swallowing. Drinking from an open cup can also support oral motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Health professionals generally recommend introducing an open cup rather than relying on a spout cup as a necessary step. A spout cup or straw cup can of course be practical in some situations, especially when you're out and about. But a spout cup isn't a necessary step before learning to drink from an open cup. You can introduce an open cup directly. How to teach your baby to drink from a cup 1. Choose a calm moment Try during a mealtime when your baby is relaxed. A few sips are enough. The goal isn't to finish a whole cup straight away. 2. Start with a small amount of water Put just a little water in the cup. This makes practising easier and means there is less water to spill. From around 6 months, you can offer water alongside breast milk or formula. In the beginning, a few sips are enough. 3. Help your baby with the movement You can gently hold the cup together and bring it towards your baby's mouth. Let them explore as much as possible, but offer help when needed. In the beginning, your baby may cough or splutter a little. This can happen while they are getting used to a new way of drinking. Stay calm and give them time to practise. 4. Expect a little mess Water on the table? A wet sleeve? A cup tipped over? It happens. By practising, your baby gradually learns how much pressure to use, how to bring the cup to their mouth and how to take a sip. Common challenges when learning to drink “My baby just plays with the cup” Very normal. For young children, a cup isn't just something to drink from. It's also something new to explore. Holding, turning and touching it are all part of learning. “My baby only drinks a few drops” That's completely fine when you're just starting. In the beginning, it's mainly about getting used to the cup and practising the movement. Every baby is different. “My baby makes a huge mess” It can be frustrating, especially when you've just cleaned everything up. But spilling is part of learning to drink independently. Your baby is discovering how much force to use and how the cup works. Do's & don'ts when learning to drink from a cup Do's Start calmly and without pressure Let your baby practise as much as possible Offer small amounts of water Choose a cup that is easy for little hands to hold Practise regularly during mealtimes Keep drinking relaxed and enjoyable Don'ts Don't expect your baby to drink neatly straight away Don't force your baby to take a sip Don't worry too much about spills Don't keep postponing an open cup because you're worried about the mess Don't feel that you need to use a spout cup as a necessary step Which cup is best for a baby? A good learning cup doesn't need to be complicated. For little ones, it helps if the cup is lightweight and easy to hold. An open cup in a size that suits small hands can make practising independent drinking a little easier. Our silicone cups are designed for those first drinking moments: easy for little hands to hold and made for everyday use. From that first careful sip to becoming more independent, learning to drink happens one little step at a time. Because those first attempts don't have to be perfect. They just have to happen together. A wet table, a few drops on the floor and a big smile? That's what being at home with little ones is all about. Frequently asked questions about drinking from a cup When can a baby start drinking from a cup? From around 6 months, you can offer your baby water alongside their usual milk feeds and introduce them to drinking from a cup. Every baby develops differently, so look at your baby's cues and readiness. Is an open cup better than a spout cup? An open cup is a good way to help your baby practise a natural drinking pattern. A spout cup isn't a necessary step before learning to drink from an open cup. Can my baby learn to drink from a straw cup? Yes. A straw cup can be a practical option, especially when you're out and about. It's still useful to give your baby opportunities to practise with an open cup as well. How can I stop everything getting wet? Honestly, you probably can't completely. Start with a small amount of water and practise during a mealtime. Putting a cloth underneath the chair can help too. A little mess is simply part of learning to drink. And luckily, wet tables eventually dry.

These soft banana pancakes for babies are easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. Naturally sweet and with no added sugar, they make a great first finger food for little ones learning to eat independently. Learning to eat is about more than eating The first bites are about so much more than the food itself. For your little one, every meal is a new experience: discovering flavours, feeling different textures and learning how to handle food independently. Touching, squeezing and exploring food with little hands are all part of the learning process. It helps babies develop fine motor skills and build confidence around eating. So if your little one squishes a pancake, drops a piece on the floor or spends more time exploring than eating, that's completely okay. It’s all part of discovering food in their own way. Ingredients (Makes about 10 mini pancakes) 1 ripe banana 1 egg 3–4 tablespoons rolled oats or oat flour A pinch of cinnamon (optional) Method Mash the banana until smooth. Add the egg and whisk together. Stir in the oats or oat flour until combined. If the batter feels a little thick, you can add 1–2 tablespoons of breast milk, formula or water to loosen it slightly. Every family is different, so simply use whatever works best for you and your little one. Let the batter rest for about 5 minutes so the oats can absorb some of the moisture. Heat a frying pan over low heat with a little butter or oil. Spoon small pancakes into the pan and cook gently until the top begins to set. Carefully flip them over and cook for another minute or two. Allow the pancakes to cool before serving. A little tip These pancakes are wonderfully soft, making them perfect for little eaters. Because of that, they can sometimes be a little tricky to flip. If one breaks apart in the pan, don't worry, that's completely normal. To your baby, it doesn't matter whether it's a perfect little pancake or a few soft pieces on the plate. In fact, those smaller pieces can even be easier for tiny hands to pick up and explore. Learning to eat isn't about making everything perfect,it’s about discovering new flavours, textures and enjoying the journey. Perfect for Baby-Led Weaning (BLW) If you're following Baby-Led Weaning (BLW), these banana pancakes make a wonderful first finger food. Their soft texture makes them easy for little hands to hold while encouraging your baby to practise self-feeding at their own pace. From around 6 months, when your baby is ready to start solids, they can begin exploring soft foods like these pancakes. Every baby develops differently, so always follow your little one's cues and adapt foods to their age and stage. Try Different Flavours Once your little one enjoys the basic recipe, it's easy to mix things up.Try adding: Grated apple for a naturally sweet twist Blueberries for extra colour and flavour Mashed strawberries Finely grated pear A spoonful of plain Greek yoghurt for an even softer texture Introducing different flavours and textures is all part of helping your baby become a confident eater. No Oats at Home? No rolled oats in the cupboard? No problem. Oat flour works just as well and creates an even smoother texture, perfect for babies who are just starting solids. Make Ahead & Freeze These pancakes are perfect for busy family life. Make a larger batch and keep them in the fridge for up to 2 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and warm them gently before serving.  Making memories around the table Mealtimes are about so much more than what’s on the plate. They are moments to discover, learn and enjoy being together. A first taste, tiny hands reaching for food and a proud smile after taking that first bite - these are the little moments that make family life so special. Having the right essentials can make these first eating moments a little easier. Our silicone tableware collection is designed for little explorers: easy for small hands to hold and made for everyday family moments. From first bites to learning to drink independently, these are the pieces designed to support your little one through their first eating moments.A little mess is part of the journey. A few crumbs on the table, sticky fingers or a dropped spoon are all signs that your little one is learning and becoming more independent. Because the sweetest memories aren’t always the neatest ones. They begin right at home.

Motherhood is often shown as something natural, as if everything just falls into place. But every mother knows reality is very different. It is beautiful, intense, exhausting, loving and sometimes completely overwhelming all at once. That is why what mothers need most is each other. The image of the perfect mother On social media we often see calm mothers, peacefully sleeping babies and perfectly styled homes. But these images never show the full reality. The sleepless nights, the doubts and the moments of feeling completely overwhelmed are rarely visible. This is why many mothers feel alone, even when they are not. Real life is not perfect and that is okay Every mother does things differently. Every baby is different. There is no single right way to do motherhood. There is only what works for your family. Motherhood is not a manual. It is something you learn as you go. Why comparison feels so heavy Comparing yourself to others often feels harmless, but it can be emotionally draining. We tend to think others are doing better, while we only see a small highlight of their lives. What mothers really need Understanding, not judgment. Simple words like “me too” or “you are doing your best” can mean everything. Being kind to yourself There is no perfect way to be a mother. Good enough truly is enough. Together instead of alone Motherhood is not a competition. It is a community. A place where we support each other, share honestly and feel understood. In the end, all mothers want the same thing: to love their child and do their best in their own way.

Is this the very first Easter with your little one? What a milestone! At Jollein, we love celebrating all 'firsts' with you. Easter is the perfect moment to create new memories, whether you’re sitting down for a big family meal or choosing a cozy picnic in the sunshine. We’re sharing some practical tips to make this first Easter brunch a total success. The Easter Table An Easter table full of treats and a baby or toddler: sounds like a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be! With the right preparation, you can keep it cozy (and the table somewhat clean). Muslin cloths as decoration Our XL muslin cloths are perfect as a cheerful table runner in the middle of the table. You can also loosely tie them as extra-large, soft napkins. It instantly gives that fresh spring look, and you’ll always have a cloth nearby for unexpected spills. Silicone baby tableware Leave the breakable plates in the cupboard. Our silicone tableware is indestructible, dishwasher safe, and features handy suction cups. That way, the Easter egg won’t go flying across the room! Bibs with sleeves An Easter breakfast isn’t complete without a few stains. Our bibs with sleeves protect that adorable Easter outfit, so your little one can explore and taste without a worry. Picnicking with your little one Enjoying the first rays of sunshine! When the sun is out, there’s nothing better than heading outdoors. A picnic is the ideal informal way to celebrate Easter with a baby or toddler. Comfortable on the grass Bring a thick playpen mat or a soft knitted blanket. This creates the perfect base for your baby to lie on or play while you enjoy your sandwich. Handy suitcases Pack one of our cute little suitcases with some snacks, a sippy cup, and a muslin. Your child will love having their very own 'Easter basket' full of surprises. Entertainment Don’t forget to bring some wooden toys. They are durable, can handle the outdoor elements, and will keep your little one happily busy. Whether you choose an extensive brunch at the table or a relaxed picnic on a blanket: make it a magical 'first'. Happy Easter!

This weekend, daylight saving time begins. Because the clock moves forward by one hour, it will be 7:00 a.m. on Sunday, while in the old time it would still be 6:00 a.m. Do you follow a fixed daily routine? Then I recommend starting your day right away at 7:00 a.m. (new time) and continuing your usual routine. By waking your child “earlier” and maintaining their usual awake time, your child will be tired enough to take their naps at the new time—even though in the old time this is an hour earlier than usual. Make sure your child is in bed at their normal bedtime (new time) and, to be safe, offer a slightly longer bedtime routine to end the day calmly and make the transition to sleep easier. Would you like to approach daylight saving time proactively? Then start adjusting your schedule this Thursday by moving everything 15 minutes earlier. Thursday, start your morning at 6:45 a.m. instead of 7:00 a.m. The first nap at 9:00 a.m. instead of 9:15 a.m., and so on. On Friday, shift everything another 15 minutes earlier and begin at 6:30 a.m. On Saturday at 6:15 a.m., and on Sunday at 7:00 a.m. (new time). Because of daylight saving time, it stays light longer in the evening. For melatonin production (the sleep hormone), it is very important that your child’s bedroom is completely dark. Even the smallest amount of light can signal to your child’s brain that it is not yet time to sleep, or that it is already time to wake up when the sun rises. Make sure the bedroom is fully dark. Don’t yet have a fixed daily routine for your child but want one? The start of daylight saving time is a good moment to teach your child in the morning not to get out of bed immediately when they wake up. The time shift actually works in your favor during the first week, allowing you to teach your child to wait in bed until 7:00 a.m. Need more tips or support? Visit www.projectslaap.nl (Dutch only).

The day is over. Toys are tidied up, the lights are dimmed slightly, and it’s time to slowly wind down. For the little ones, this is the perfect moment to relax and feel safe. At Jollein, we call this a soft snuggle bedtime routine: a cozy ritual full of softness, warmth, and security. Bedtime can be enjoyable, but sometimes it’s challenging. Especially if your child is a difficult sleeper, it may take some time before they calm down. That’s why a gentle routine is so valuable: it provides structure, reassurance, and small moments to end the day together. Why a Soft Snuggle Bedtime Routine HelpsChildren feel most comfortable when they know what’s coming. A fixed routine signals: now it’s time to relax. The body gradually switches to rest mode, and your child learns that sleep can be a safe and familiar moment. A soft snuggle bedtime routine: helps release the day’s stimuli makes falling asleep easier, even for tricky sleepers provides a familiar and safe feeling creates valuable moments together, even when it’s a bit challenging How to Create a Soft Snuggle MomentSoft materials, calming sounds, and gentle lighting give the crib a cozy, safe atmosphere. With Jollein products, bedtime becomes easier and even cozier. Gentle wind-downDim the lights at home, put away stimulating toys, and take a deep breath. A canopy or mosquito net above the crib makes the space a little darker and feels like a cozy tent where your little one can feel safe. Fresh startAfter bathing or changing, it’s time for a soft sleeping bag. It keeps your child warm, wraps them snugly, and gives a safe feeling. Extra cozy and warmTuck your little one under a soft sheet and blanket. This makes the crib feel even cozier and warmer. Soothing soundsA gentle tune from a musical hanger helps your child relax. The soft sound quickly becomes a recognizable bedtime signal and can provide extra calm for a difficult sleeper. Extra tip: play the music occasionally during pregnancy, so your child can start recognizing it early. Cuddle momentA little hug, a kind word, or a short story. This is the ultimate moment of connection, even if it takes a while before your child is truly calm. Repetition is KeyBy following these steps every evening, a familiar ritual forms. Your child knows: now it’s time to let go and relax. With soft fabrics, a warm sleeping bag, blanket, and gentle music, bedtime becomes much more pleasant—even on challenging days. A Gentle End to the DayA soft snuggle bedtime routine isn’t about perfection, but attention. About small, cozy moments that make a big difference together. Sometimes it’s easy, sometimes not. With the right products, you give your child exactly what they need: calm, warmth, and security, and for parents a little extra support to turn bedtime into a loving ritual. Sleep well, little dreamer 🌙💛

The Jollein Sleep Guide | TOG value & safe sleep for your baby A good night’s sleep is just as important for your baby as it is for you. But how do you make sure your little one stays warm without overheating? And what do all those TOG values actually mean?In this sleep guide, we explain how to let your baby sleep safely and comfortably. What is TOG? TOG stands for Thermal Overall Grade and indicates how warm a sleep product is. Think of sleeping bags, blankets and footmuffs. The higher the TOG value, the more heat the product retains. TOG helps you make a conscious choice for what your baby needs during sleep, based on the room temperature and the season. It’s important not to simply add TOG values together. The layer of air between clothing and bedding creates extra warmth, which means the calculation may no longer be accurate. The ideal temperature in the baby’s room The recommended temperature for a baby’s room is between 16 and 20°C. Within this range, you can use TOG values and clothing layers to fine-tune what your baby needs. Not sure? Always feel your baby’s neck or back. This is the best way to tell whether your baby feels too warm or too cold. Which TOG value suits which temperature? Use the table below as a guideline, but always keep an eye on your baby and their comfort. 🧡Tip: slightly cooler is better than too warm. Overheating can lead to restless sleep.   Why a sleeping bag is a safe choice A sleeping bag is one of the safest ways to keep your baby warm while sleeping. Unlike loose blankets, a sleeping bag cannot cover your baby’s head and keeps them comfortably wrapped all night long. At Jollein, you’ll find sleeping bags for every season and age: Summer sleeping bags (TOG 0.5) Sleeping bags with removable sleeves for spring and autumn  4-season sleeping bags that can be adjusted all year round Newborn sleeping bags for extra comfort during the first weeks – [add hyperlink to Newborn Cocoons collection] This way, you create a safe and familiar sleeping environment every night. Making the baby bed safely A good night’s sleep starts with a safely made bed. Keep it calm and clutter-free: Use a firm mattress with a well-fitting fitted sheet Avoid loose items such as pillows and soft toys Prefer a sleeping bag over loose blankets Do you still want to use a sheet or blanket? Tuck it in tightly under the mattress so your baby cannot slide underneath. Material also matters: Thicker, padded blankets are suitable for cooler rooms Thin (muslin) blankets are more comfortable at higher temperatures And most importantly: trust your instincts. Feeling your baby’s neck and observing their behaviour will tell you a lot.

It’s freezing outside, the heating goes up a notch and all you want to do is crawl under a thick duvet yourself. But how do you make sure your little one stays nice and warm at night, without overheating? Every season it’s a bit of a puzzle with layers. No worries! We’re happy to help you with a few practical tips, so you can both enjoy a good night’s sleep. Dreaming big since 1973 At Jollein, we’ve been working on the perfect sleeping bag since the 1970s. It all started with a simple idea: babies sleep more peacefully (and safely!) in a sleeping bag. Many years later, we’ve used that expertise to develop the perfect sleeping bags that do exactly what they’re meant to do: provide comfort. We know which fabrics feel soft on delicate baby skin and which thickness you need at what time. Whether you choose a sleeping bag or a traditionally made-up crib: we’ve got you. The TOG value: your new best friend You’ve probably seen the term before: TOG value. It may sound technical, but it’s simply a guide to how warm a sleeping bag or blanket is. In winter, we usually aim for a total of 2.5 to 3.0 TOG. How you build that up depends on the room temperature: Colder than 18°C? Choose a winter sleeping bag with sleeves, combined with pyjamas and a bodysuit, or use a sheet with a warm blanket. Around 20°C? A winter sleeping bag with just a bodysuit, or a sheet with a single blanket, is often enough. Our tip: Not sure? Feel your baby’s neck. Does it feel comfortable? Then you’re good. Does it feel clammy or sweaty? Time to remove a layer. Cold hands are common in winter and usually nothing to worry about. Sleeping bag or made-up crib? Every baby (and every parent) is different. Some swear by a sleeping bag, while others prefer a snugly made-up crib with a sheet and blanket. The sleeping bag | Ideal for active babies who ‘walk’ through the crib in their sleep. Our winter sleeping bags often have detachable sleeves – super handy when temperatures suddenly rise. Sheets and blankets | A sheet gives a cosy, secure feeling, especially when the crib is tucked in tightly. In winter, add a beautiful knitted blanket on top for extra warmth. Mix, match and unzip Let’s be honest: looks matter too. Whether you go for a complete look or love to mix things up, our prints are made to combine. From dreamy Flower Fairies and cute Animal Friends to calm Leafy Dreams or cheerful Tiny Park. A subtle printed sheet peeking out from under a plain blanket? There’s always something that fits perfectly in your nursery. Safety above all The most important thing is that your little one sleeps safely. Using a sheet and blanket? Always make the bed ‘short’: your baby’s feet near the foot of the crib, so they can’t slip under the covers. Using a sleeping bag? Make sure it’s the right size so the neckline fits snugly. Quick check: Choose your style: the ease of a sleeping bag or the snug feel of a blanket? The right size: the neckline shouldn’t be too wide. Build layers: combine a thin bodysuit with a sleeping bag, rather than one very thick item. Trust your instinct: you know your baby best. If they sleep well, you’re doing great. Have questions about which combination works best in your nursery? We’re happy to help. For all the first nights – and many more to come: sleep well! Love,Jollein

What about your baby's naps during the day? Daytime and nighttime sleep are closely connected. A restless night is often the result of a day with little quality sleep. When your baby is around 3 to 4 months old, it can be very helpful to work towards a routine that includes three naps per day: the morning nap, the afternoon nap, and the third nap. The afternoon nap is the most important nap of the day, but the other naps are important too, as they each serve their own purpose. The Morning Nap The morning nap, especially when your baby is around 6 to 7 months old, is best seen as a power nap to get through the morning and lunchtime with enough energy. Especially if your baby has had a good night’s sleep, they don't need much sleep in the morning. A longer morning nap can even negatively affect the afternoon nap. Babies are often still a bit tired from the night at the time of the morning nap (just like we tend to yawn in the morning). This is why it is usually the first nap that fits into the routine. This is great because it gives you time to take a shower in the morning or enjoy a nice cup of coffee or tea. For young babies, this nap usually lasts around 90 minutes, but by the time your baby is 6 months old, they often only need 45 minutes (assuming they’ve had a good night’s sleep). Overall, I am a big advocate for a short morning nap because it allows your baby to build up a "sleep debt" which can be caught up during the afternoon nap – the most important nap of the day. But a short morning nap has other benefits as well: If your baby is older than six months, a longer morning nap may cause them to wake up early. This longer nap is seen as an extension of the night, preventing your baby from sleeping longer during the night. Offering a short morning nap ensures that the afternoon nap falls within the biological sleep window (when melatonin levels are high and cortisol levels are low). Around 15 to 18 months, your baby will be ready to switch to just one nap a day: the afternoon nap. It is much easier to let go of this short nap than to try and gradually move it to the afternoon, which could lead to a much too long period of wakefulness at the end of the day. If necessary, you can easily let this nap happen “on the go” without disrupting your rhythm. The Afternoon Nap The afternoon nap is the most important nap of the day – both for your baby and for you ;-). On average, children need this nap until they are around 2.5 to 3 years old. Therefore, it is important to start early in creating a good foundation for this nap. Offering the afternoon nap during the biological sleep window (depending on your baby’s age, this nap typically starts between 12:00 and 1:00 PM) ensures that it is a high-quality nap that helps promote a good night's sleep. Did you know that a good afternoon nap contributes to the development of both short- and long-term memory, the recovery of the immune system, the growth and appetite of your baby, and the regulation of emotions? Since this is the most important nap of the day, I always recommend (if possible) having it take place in bed. For the morning nap and the third nap, you can be more flexible. Looking for a cozy sleeping bag for your little one? Look no further and shop them here! The Third Nap The third nap is the nap that most babies need until they are between 6 and 8 months old. This nap helps your baby start the evening routine (dinner and bedtime) well-rested and prevents them from starting the night overtired. Difficulty falling asleep, restless evenings and nights, and waking up early are typical signs of overtiredness due to insufficient sleep during the day. The third nap ensures your baby begins the night well-rested (provided the other naps are also well-established). However, be careful: offering this third nap for too long can cause the mentioned problems. Keep this nap short, up to 20 minutes, between 6 and 8 months.