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Tips for minimising sleep disruptions during the holidays

It is that time of year again where we all start thinking about the holiday period and where we will be. This year has some added complications such as; will I be allowed to go anywhere, will I be able to see family. Let us hope for the best and say yes. But how are these different homes and different beds going to affect you and your families sleep patterns?

Even babies and children that are usually good sleepers may find it difficult to settle or get enough sleep over this busy holiday period.

Here are some useful tips to help minimise those sleep distributions.

1) Don’t skip bedtime routines.

Children, especially young children feel more secure when they have a routine, in particular a bedtime routine. It is very tempering during the best time of year to skip the bedtime routine. But it may cause more trouble than it is worth.

2) Recreate their sleep environment

When visiting family and friends over the holiday period it is easy to forget that your child may not settle as well in an unfamiliar place and unfamiliar bed. Recreating their usual sleep environment can help prevent restless nights for everyone. It could be as simple as bringing their pillow, blanket or favourite toy from home, or using a white noise machine to block unfamiliar noises.

3) Avoid over stimulus before bed

Holidays can be a busy time with lots of rushing around. Try to incorporate quieter/slower times before bed to help time settle and wind down in the evening before bed.

4) Travel during sleep times.

If you are travelling with young children over the holiday period try to do so during their usual nap or sleep time, to help protect the child sleep schedule as much as possible.

5) lower your expectations

Consider what is age-appropriate for your child. For example, keeping them awake to see the Christmas lights when they are usually asleep by 7 pm, might not be the best thing to do. Reconsider and look at the big picture. There will be plenty of time in the future to see the lights, and they will probably enjoy it more when they are older anyway.

Holidays can be a stressful time for parents. Use these tips to try make it run a smoothly as possible during bedtime.

If you have any specific concerns about your travel plans, please do not hesitate to get in touch. We can work together to create a plan to maximise your child’s sleep and minimise your stress levels.

Kim is a Mum with a BSC. and the founder of Cherished Sleep. As a sleep specialist she helps people of all ages realise the benefits of good sleep through sleep hygiene, healthy sleep habits and behavioural modification. She also loves a good writing session and has written multiple blogs on the topics of sleep, parenting and wellbeing. You can follow Kim on Facebook, Insta or Pinterest.

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