Getting the little ones to bed can be a serious challenge. We’ve all been there – your toddler is wired with energy and not ready for bed, your baby keeps waking up in the middle of the night, or your child is too scared to sleep alone. Whatever the problem is, we’ve got you covered! Here are our top hacks to putting your kids to bed.
Bedtime Snacks
You’d be surprised to hear that there are specific foods that will inspire your kids to get sleepy. When your little ones are craving a night time snack opt for cherries or bananas. This will satisfy their sweet tooth, without cranking them up on sugar. Cherries are one of the only foods that naturally source melatonin. It’s recommended to snack on cherries an hour before bedtime. Bananas are a good source of potassium and magnesium which both promote muscle relaxation, ultimately causing sleepiness.
White Noise
Many adults use white noise machines but forget that they are useful for putting their little ones to sleep, as well. Static, ocean waves, a fan, or even a ride in the car, are all effective forms of white noise. The constant noise is soothing and prevents loud noises from waking them. Making this part of your kids’ bedtime routine will also let them know that it’s time to get ready for bed. Another plus is that white noise is portable, so it’s great for traveling and getting your kids to sleep in hotel rooms or at their grandparents’ house.
Breaking Bad Habits
Depending on the age of your child, they require a certain amount of sleep every night. Some babies are just born to sleep and some are constantly fighting nap time. Nursing and rocking your baby to sleep can create bad sleeping habits for your little one. In order to still be helpful to your child without creating negative associations, comfort and provide for your baby before she falls asleep.
At different ages, kids go through sleep regressions. These brain developments will impact your child’s sleeping schedule and you definitely don’t want to create bad sleeping habits during these periods. They will likely be waking up and sleeping less often, so be patient and know that these changes will pass.
The Power of Weighted Blankets
Weighted blankets are a remedy for many problems. Whether your child is scared to sleep alone, has autism, or an anxiety disorder, a weighted blanket can be extremely effective in comforting your child. The weight of the blanket sends signals to the brain to release neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. This induces relaxation and relief to someone experiencing any type of anxiety, much like a long hug would.
A trick to keep up your sleeve for when your child wakes up in the middle of the night and wants you to cuddle with them is to pull out the weighted blanket and lay it on top of them. Sit beside them until they fall asleep but don’t enter the bed with them. The weighted blanket will do all of the comforting and you won’t be creating a bad habit.
We know how difficult it can be to put your kids to sleep and keep them sleeping throughout the night. These hacks will make your kids more relaxed and will allow you to get more sleep, too. A proper mattress is extremely impactful on you and your child’s sleep. Browse our selection of mattresses today and learn more before you buy.
