Tips for Helping Your Child Sleep

Getting your child to sleep can be a tough process for some parents. We have some tips that can help.

Establish a consistent and relaxing bedtime routine that lasts between 20 and 30 minutes and ends in your child’s bedroom. Reading the same book every night can also help keep your child in a nice routine. Try to avoid too many stimulating activities after dinner.

Make sure your child is comfortable. Dress your child so that they do not get too hot or too cold, and use age appropriate blankets and pillows. Don’t use blankets, pillows or have any loose items in the crib with an infant (try using a sleep sack instead).

Create a sleep-promoting environment. Items like room darkening or blackout curtains and white noise machines can work to help soothe your child from excess noise and light, helping them to sleep easier.

Try to keep timing consistent. By going to bed at the same time every night, your child’s body will get used to a set schedule and be ready for sleep. Also, try to keep naps consistent as well, and avoid naps that take place too late in the day.

Avoid caffeine and excess sugar before bed. These will stimulate your child and can disrupt your plans for putting your little one to sleep in a timely manner.

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