We all know that getting enough sleep is vital for our health and happiness. However, for our kids it’s arguably even more important, as while our little angels are blissfully dreaming, their brains and bodies are also engaged in the all-important task of growth and development.
Unfortunately, despite this essential requirement for a long and peaceful slumber, many children don’t get the quality of sleep they really need. If your own little ones are having trouble catching enough Z’s, here are some helpful tips you can use to improve their chances of getting a good night’s rest.
Create A Calming Ritual
One of the most effective ways to help your kids settle at night is to create a soothing routine that prepares them for sleep. The nature of this routine will depend on your child’s preferences, but here’s an example you can use to guide you.
First, you can start with a calming bath, using soaps or a bubble bath with sleep-enhancing properties, such as lavender and camomile. Next, they can put on their PJs and clean their teeth. Finally, it’s time to hop into bed for a bedtime story or two, or perhaps even a lullaby if you’re up to the task. This basic but calming routine may prove so effective you find it hard to stay awake yourself.
Make Sure Their Beds Are Comfortable As Can Be
Few things can interfere with a good night’s rest like an uncomfortable bed. Sometimes, the reason for a child’s inability to sleep could be as simple as a problem with the mattress. It may even be down to some unwanted nocturnal visitors, like bed bugs, which are causing irritation and keeping your little one awake.
If you’re worried that you may have a bed bug problem, it’s important to call in the experts, as creepy crawlies are notoriously hard to get rid of yourself. An experienced bed bug exterminator can provide a customized treatment plan that will help you to eradicate your home from these slumber-disturbing pests.
Cut Down On Screentime
As well as a soothing bedtime routine and a comfy, cozy bed, it’s important to limit screen time before bed. The glare produced by a tablet, computer, or TV screen can hamper your child’s ability to sleep, and the content they are watching could even produce excess adrenaline that makes it impossible for them to wind down.
Cutting down on screentime should become an important part of your little one’s bedtime prep, not least because unnaturally bright lights prevent your body from producing the hormones necessary for a good night’s slumber: specifically, melatonin.
Stay Positive
Sometimes, no matter what you do, your child will still have trouble sleeping. Perhaps they have nightmares or night terrors, or they wake up in the middle of the night no matter how tired they are, or maybe they even wet the bed.
Regardless of the situation, it’s important to do your best to remain patient and positive. Granted, this is easier said than done when you’re exhausted yourself – but it’s crucial that you maintain positive associations around going to bed. Your child also needs to know that you will always be there to help and reassure them – even if it’s the middle of the night.
