Christmas Time: Coping with Disrupted Sleep, Late Nights, and Busy Schedules
| Kat Maddox
The festive season is a magical time for families, but it can also throw your little one’s sleep routine into disarray. Late nights, new environments, and lots of excitement can leave everyone feeling overtired. Here are some tips to help you navigate the Christmas period with minimal disruption to your child’s sleep.
- Stick to Familiar Routines Where Possible
While it’s tempting to let routines slide during the holidays, try to maintain some consistency. Whether it’s sticking to your usual bedtime story or keeping nap times on track, familiar routines can provide comfort in a busy season.
- Plan for Late Nights
Late nights are often unavoidable over Christmas. If your child has a later bedtime, aim to give them a quiet wind-down period beforehand. The following day, try to let them catch up on rest with an extra nap if needed.
- Manage New Environments
Visiting family or friends can mean sleeping in unfamiliar places. Bring along comfort items like their favourite blanket or toy (perhaps Bebbington Bear!) to help them feel more at home.
- Keep an Eye on Overstimulation
With so much excitement, it’s easy for little ones to become overstimulated. Try to balance festive activities with some quiet downtime to help them recharge and avoid meltdowns.
- Prepare for Winter Sniffles
The festive period often coincides with colds and sniffles. Keep your child hydrated and comfortable during the night, and use products like Klearvol to help create a soothing bedtime atmosphere.
- Take Care of Yourself Too
Parenting during the holidays can be exhausting, so don’t forget to prioritise your own rest and wellbeing. A rested parent is better equipped to handle the joys (and challenges) of the season!
The Christmas season doesn’t have to mean completely disrupted sleep. By maintaining balance and planning ahead, you can make the most of the festive magic without too much overtiredness.
Looking for more sleep tips? Check out our live Q&A on Instagram, with expert advice from Andrea Grace, a trusted children’s sleep specialist, on managing routines during seasonal changes.
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