Being well rested and getting adequate sleep is not only important for infants, toddlers, and children, but for parents too! Developing bedtime routines for the family and creating a comfortable sleeping environment can help lead to better sleep for all. Check out these sleep tips to help everyone sleep better for a happy, healthy family.
Infants
REGULATE THE TEMPERATURE:
Keeping babyโs room at a cool and comfortable temperature can help your little one sleep through the night. The optimal temperature for a nursery is between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Look for bedding such as moisture wickingย crib sheetsย andย mattress padsย with temperature balancing technology that can help keep infants cool, dry, and comfortable.
KNOW YOUR BABYโS CUES:
When children become tired, they often exhibit signals that they are ready for a nap or bed. If you notice a sudden drop in your little oneโs activity level when they are sleepy, look for this cue to help signal that your little one is ready to begin his bedtime routine.
REDUCE ALLERGENS:
Dust, allergens and other asthma instigators in babyโs room can lead to a restless night for your infant. Look for bedding made of hypoallergenic materials and be sure to clean babyโs nursery and bedding often toย reduce allergens.
Toddlers
CONSISTENCY:
Create a toddler bedtime routine. Children are pattern seekers, so sticking to a toddlerโs nap and nightly routine is key for both nap time and bedtime. If your toddler normally naps at two in the afternoon, try to put them down for a nap as close to 2:00 PM as you can for consistency. Letting your child stay up past their usual bedtime can actually make it more difficult for him or her to fall asleep.
DONโT SWITCH TO A TODDLER BED TOO SOON:
While there is no set age, babies are usually ready to transition from a crib to aย toddler bed when they are able to climb out of their crib on their own. Transitioning baby to a toddler bed before they are ready can disrupt their sleep routine and lead to restless nights for all.
CREATE A COMFORTABLE SLEEP ENVIRONMENT:
While itโs important for newborns to have a supportive yet firmย crib mattress, it is not necessary for a toddlerโs bed to be as firm.ย Dual-sided two stage crib andย toddler mattressesย have an ultra-firm side for infants and a softer, comfortable side for toddlers. Mattress pads provide can also provide waterproof protection and safe, added cushioning for toddlers and infants!ย ย ย ย
Mom & Dad
AVOID BED SHARING:
Establishing a separate place for baby to sleep is not only safe for your little one but can help parents get a good nightโs sleep. Room sharing with a newborn is a good alternative to co-sleeping as it gives baby a separate, safer sleeping area.ย Bassinets help keep baby close by for easy access until he or she is ready to transition to aย crib.
DEVELOPING A BEDTIME ROUTINE:
Who says bedtimes are just for kids? Establishing a sleep schedule and nighttime routine helps to regulate an adultโs internal clock, helping parents fall asleep and stay asleep longer.
EAT RIGHT & EXERCISE DAILY:
Eating right and maintaining an active lifestyle every day is important for adults and can help with oneโs quality of sleep.ย
