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 baby’s 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 wicking crib sheets and mattress pads with temperature balancing technology that can help keep infants cool, dry, and comfortable.
KNOW YOUR BABY’S 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 one’s 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 baby’s room can lead to a restless night for your infant. Look for bedding made of hypoallergenic materials and be sure to clean baby’s nursery and bedding often to reduce allergens.
Toddlers
CONSISTENCY:
Create a toddler bedtime routine. Children are pattern seekers, so sticking to a toddler’s 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.
DON’T SWITCH TO A TODDLER BED TOO SOON:
While there is no set age, babies are usually ready to transition from a crib to a 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 it’s important for newborns to have a supportive yet firm crib mattress, it is not necessary for a toddler’s bed to be as firm. Dual-sided two stage crib and toddler mattresses 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!
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 night’s sleep. Room sharing with a newborn is a good alternative to co-sleeping as it gives baby a separate, safer sleeping area. Bassinets help keep baby close by for easy access until he or she is ready to transition to a crib.
DEVELOPING A BEDTIME ROUTINE:
Who says bedtimes are just for kids? Establishing a sleep schedule and nighttime routine helps to regulate an adult’s 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 one’s quality of sleep.
