Winter Sniffles and Sleep: Tips for Restful Nights
| Kat Maddox
Winter brings chilly nights, cosy jumpers, and unfortunately, the occasional sniffle for little ones. When children aren’t feeling their best, it can disrupt their sleep – and yours. But with a few tips, you can help make bedtime a little smoother, even during those sniffly nights.
- Create a Calming Bedtime Routine
A familiar and soothing bedtime routine helps signal to your little one that it’s time to wind down. Dim the lights, read a calming story, and give them a warm (but not too hot) bath to relax before bed.
- Keep the Bedroom Environment Comfortable
When your child has a stuffy nose or cough, keeping their bedroom comfortable can make a difference. Ensure the room is cool, but not cold, and consider using a humidifier to keep the air from getting too dry.
- Elevate Their Head
Slightly elevating your child’s pillow can help with drainage and make it easier for them to breathe. Just ensure their sleep position remains safe and appropriate for their age.
- Stick to Regular Sleep Schedules
Even when they’re under the weather, keeping to a regular bedtime and wake-up time can support better sleep. A consistent routine helps maintain their body’s natural clock, especially after the recent clock changes.
- Encourage Calm
If your child wakes up during the night, try to keep the atmosphere calm and quiet. Gentle reassurances and soft lighting can help them settle back down.
By taking these small steps, you can help create a restful environment, even during winter sniffles.
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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