We all know that adults that, as adults, we should get eight hours of sleep a night. Ensuring this is our own responsibility. However, things aren’t exactly the same for children. Kids of different ages require different amounts of sleep, and it’s our job as responsible parents to make sure that they get this. You should never underestimate the importance of sleep for kids. Sleep is a restorative process that can allow your little ones’ bodies to repair, for their minds to consolidate the knowledge that they have gained and the memories that they have made throughout the day. So, how can you guarantee your little one’s a good night’s sleep? Here are a few steps that you should take!
Make a Set Bedtime
Routine is so important when it comes to making sure your kids get enough sleep. Setting a bedtime helps to make sure that they are tired and ready to get their heads down at the end of the day, and that they are ready and raring to go at the right time in the morning. Check how many hours sleep children of each given age should have and make sure that their sleep-wake routine corresponds with this.
Make Sure They Have the Right Bedding
The best type of bed for your child, again, will vary depending on their age. Newborns tend to settle most comfortably in moses baskets, and shouldn’t have blankets or pillows that could pose a threat to their wellbeing. Toddlers can upgrade into a small bed of their own. Check out the best mattress for children, so that they are comfortable at all times. This will be a lot smaller than an adult’s mattress to fit well on their smaller bed frame.
Banish Distractions
There are all sorts of distractions that can keep your child up too late or that can cause them to struggle to nod off. Televisions and handheld mobile devices emit a blue light that tricks your body into thinking that it is daytime, regardless of the actual time. So, while putting an episode of your little one’s favourite programme on a tablet for them while they are in bed might seem like a good idea, it could actually prove detrimental to their sleep-wake cycle. Instead, consider reading them a story.
Turn the Lights Off
Many children are fine being in the dark, so make sure to turn the lights out at night. This will help them to accept that the day is over and they will have to rest. If your child is scared of the dark, invest in a nightlight that will emit a soothing glow that can help to comfort them, but won’t keep them awake.
These are just a few different steps that can help to guarantee your little ones a good night’s sleep. Their happiness, health and wellbeing should be of paramount importance at all times, and sufficient sleep will help to keep them content and well!
