Welcome back from that awesome vacation or holidays crazyness, parents! If you're anything like me, you're probably thinking, "Okay, it's time to get our sleep game back on track." As we transition from the vacation highs, it's back to the nitty-gritty of schedules, routines, and the everyday juggle of parenthood.
So, here are my two go-to strategies to help fellow parents like you and me get our sleep back in check after the vacation/holiday adventures. You might notice your little one’s sleep is off so now it's back to the real deal – back to the hustle, back to bedtime routines, and back to reclaiming our precious sleep routines! Let's do this!
Here are two things I want you to start tonight to get everyone back to great sleep!
#1: Initiate adjustments to schedules now. Your little one's routine may have shifted, with later bedtimes and sleep-ins. Circadian rhythms are affected not only by a lack of routine but also by irregular exposure to light, a significant cue for the body's wakefulness and sleep patterns.
"The lack of circadian cues from the sun during the morning and abnormal exposure to blue light from electronics at night severely disrupts their circadian rhythms."
Transitioning doesn't have to be abrupt. Begin by moving bedtime up gradually, around 15 minutes every three days. Ensure consistent wake-up times and expose your child to natural light during wakeful periods, while dimming lights during wind-downs and bedtime. This aids melatonin production, gradually shifting sleep cycles. Cut off electronics at least an hour before bedtime to minimize blue light exposure, which significantly impacts sleep onset.
Establish consistent bedtime routines and wind-downs before naps. Everyone, including your little one, benefits from a pre-sleep ritual. It doesn't matter what it involves; the key is consistency. Dimming lights creates a relaxing environment, making sleep smoother.
#2 Address any sleep challenges your child may be facing. If you weren’t sleeping well before, you are most likely sleeping worse now. If sleep is disrupted, particularly with inadequate day sleep and frequent night waking, now is the time to address it. Improving sleep is possible with a well-thought-out plan and seeking support.
Having a plan is crucial, and investing time and support is necessary for change. There is no other way around it if you want to avoid stress, crying and years of sleep deprivation. Your child is never too young or old, and it's not about being stubborn or having done something wrong. Change is about learning, and with learning comes improvement. Allow yourself to prioritize sleep for your family without guilt. Reach out for a step-by-step plan, support, and guidance to regain control over sleep during transitions.
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Remember, you are their rock. Stay strong, grounded, and remember that sleep is a human need that is worth prioritizing for your family’s health and wellbeing.
Can’t wait to make 2024 your most rested year yet!