If bedtime feels more like battle time, you're in the right place. Use these sleep tips to give your kids the rest they need, and you the help you deserve.
Sleep Guide for Kids
A: Appeal to the senses. Use the power of sight, smell, taste, sound and touch to immerse children in sleep time, making them feel like an active participant instead of a flunky.
B: Buy a cozy blanket (and keep it around). Children become emotionally attached to cuddly toys, blankets and even smelly old scraps of material because they intuitively believe they possess a unique essence or life force, psychologists say. This attachment may also denote positive independence in your child...so grab a nap time blankie today!
C: Create a calming bedtime routine. A predictable routine signals to your child that it's time to wind down. Consistency is key! The perfect routine? An episode of The Nap Time Show, a warm Oaty Float, the empowerment of choosing a sleeping eye mask, and off to DreamWorld you go!
D: Dim the lights. Our bodies are programmed to respond to light. Just as the sun sets, dimming the lights in your home can help signal to your child's brain that it's time to get sleepy. Luckily, we’ve got the perfect night light for that.
E: Eliminate over-stimulation. According to the Institute of Child Psychology, not all screen-time is created equal! Stay away from so-called “children’s” content with erratic imaging (rapid sequencing and bright colors). Studies conducted by Dr. Dimitri Christakis point to this overstimulation as a huge contributor to lack of focus and sleep.
F: Foster independence. Encourage your child to pick out their pajamas or help make their bed. It gives them a sense of control and investment in bedtime.
G: Go for a bedtime story. Not only does reading to your child help with their development, but it also helps them relax and prepare for sleep. Need help picking? We’ve got a whole mini-series for that!
H: Hum a lullaby. Never underestimate the power of a softly sung lullaby to soothe your child to sleep. Music is magic! That’s why we’ve got a whole album of Songs for Naptime you can stream anytime, any place.
I: Invest in a good mattress. Comfort is key. A quality mattress (or couch/sofa for naptime) can make all the difference in how well your child sleeps.
J: Jammies should be comfy. Scratchy tags and tight waistbands can be the enemy of sleep. Make sure your child's sleepwear is as comfortable as possible.
K: Keep the room cool. A cooler room can help your child sleep better. Aim for a temperature that's comfortable but on the cooler side. Our Sleep Trainer clock keeps temp of the room and keeps you in-the-know.
L: Limit sugar intake. Sugar can act as a stimulant, making it harder for your child to settle down. Keep an eye on sneaky sugars in snacks and drinks.
M: Make bedtime non-negotiable. Consistency with bedtime and naptime reinforces its importance. It's a crucial part of the day, not an afterthought.
N: Notice sleep cues. Yawning, rubbing eyes, and quieting down can all signal that it's time to start the sleep time routine.
O: Offer a security object. A beloved stuffed animal or blanket can provide comfort and security, making it easier for your child to fall asleep.
P: Praise good sleep habits. Positive reinforcement can encourage your child to keep up the good bedtime behavior.
Q: Quiet time is key. Establish a quiet period before bed to help your child wind down. This could include reading or quiet play.
R: Reduce clutter. A tidy room can help create a calming environment, making it easier to fall asleep.
S: Stick to a schedule. Even on weekends, try to keep bedtime and wake-up times consistent. It helps regulate your child's sleep cycle.
T: Turn off bright lights. Use nightlights or dimmer switches in the evening to help your child's body prepare for sleep.
U: Understand each child is unique. Some kids need more wind-down time than others. Tailor your approach to fit your child's needs.
V: Ventilate the room. A fresh, airy room can help improve sleep quality. Make sure there's adequate ventilation.
W: Warm bath before bed. A warm bath can help relax your child's muscles and signal that it's time to slow down.
X: eXamine your own sleep habits. Children often mimic their parents. Show them that you also prioritize good sleep.
Y: Yawn together. Yawning is contagious and can help trigger the brain's sleep mechanism. Don't be afraid to fake a few yawns!
Z: Zero in on comfort. Make sure your child's bed and pillows are comfortable and supportive for a good night's rest. The Nap Time Show pillows will send them to sleep with a smile and giggle.
There you have it, folks! An A-to-Z guide to ensuring your little ones (and you!) get the restful sleep you all deserve. Remember, at The Nap Time Show, we're all about creating positive sleep vibes for the whole family.
If you enjoyed these tips and want more genius sleep solutions, don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter. This sleep guide for kids is just the beginning. Sweet dreams and happy napping from all of us at The Nap Time Show!
