Is bedtime more groan than grin? Vicky Vlachonis, registered London osteopath and musculoskeletal expert, specializes in baby massage. She’s also a mum, and she knows how to help a newborn get a good night’s rest.

1. This is quiet time, not playtime: take a quick shower and let go of the day’s stresses before picking up your little one. A baby will sense your tension straight away.

2. A warm bath with a few drops of lavender or chamomile essential oil will settle your babe.

3. Try a gentle massage with an aqueous-based cream; stretching arms up, bending knees to chest and running your fingers up the baby’s spine will help soothe and calm.

4. Swaddling helps a baby feel safe. After the last feed, dim the lights and hold your bundle in silence. Make sure he has burped before leaving the room.

He’ll be all smiles in the morning.

Vicky Vlachonis, at The Birth Company, 137 Harley Street, W1G 6BF (020 7725 0528 or thebirthcompany.co.uk). Vlachonis is currently on maternity leave but will answer any questions via vvlachonis@hotmail.com.

PERFORM
Youth Music Box
What: Free temporary installation allows little groovers of any age to make pop music.
Why: Everyone’s got talent.
When: Fri.-31 Aug. Daily, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: Royal Festival Hall, lvl. 1 (adjacent to the Clore Ballroom), Southbank Centre, Belvedere Rd., SE1 8XX (08716 632500).

TREAT
Ritual for Mother and Baby
What: Massage and floatation treatment soothes weary mummies-to-be; ideal for pre- or postholiday skin.
Why: You’re travelling with precious cargo.
When: Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: Elemis, 2-3 Lancashire Ct., W1S 1EX (08704 104210).

SUPPORT
School Library E-petition
What: Crucial campaign for the statutory lending of books in all British schools.
Why: Your kids have stopped telling tales.
When: You’re on the same page.
Where: Online at petitions.number10.gov.uk.