Heading on holiday soon? You’re probably looking forward to a break, a change of scenery, or some sunshine! It's often said that going on holiday is just parenting in a new location. While traveling is fun, keeping your little one on their sleep schedule can be tough. As a Child Sleep Consultant and Mum of 3, I'm here to share some practical tips to help your little one sleep better while on holidays.
1. Travel During Naptime
Try to align your travel times with your child’s nap schedule. Whether you’re driving or flying, this can mean they get some sleep on the way and arrive rested and fresher.
2. Keep Day time Naps Consistent
Remember, a well-rested baby or toddler during the day tends to sleep better at night. Try to ensure your child gets their usual naps during the day, even if it means planning activities around nap schedules.
3. Stick to Your Routine
Kids find comfort in regular routines, so try to keep their bedtime and nap schedules as normal as possible when you’re away from home. Ideally, let one nap happen in a cot. If that's not possible, find a quiet spot free from distractions instead. My CulaBaby Sleep Shade is perfect for this, as it provides a dark, calming area for your baby to nap in prams or strollers making it easier to keep up with nap routines on the go.
If the excitement of travel or new places delays bedtime, continue with your usual bedtime rituals like reading a story, singing a song, or having a bath. These familiar activities help your child feel at home, even when they're not.
4. Bring Familiar Comforts
Pack items your child associates with sleep, like their favourite blanket, book or a white noise machine. This helps recreate the home environment and settles them down.
5. Darken the Environment:
A dark room works wonders. If your accommodation lacks blackout blinds, bring portable ones. For naps on the move, my CulaBaby Sleep Shade can block out the distraction
6. Be Flexible
While maintaining a routine is helpful, being flexible is also important. Remember, you're on holiday to enjoy yourself! Not every nap will be in the ideal setting—sometimes a stroller or a different room will have to do. Even bedtime might shift later if there are evening activities for kids. Don't worry about these changes. A bit of flexibility can help keep your holiday fun and relaxing for everyone.
7. Expect Some Disruption
It’s normal for sleep patterns to be off while away. Don’t sweat it too much; things will return to normal once you’re back home.
8. Try to Stay Calm and Enjoy Your Holiday
Finally, remember that holidays are a special time for families and a little disruption is expected. Enjoy the break, and trust that you can return to normality when you’re back home.
If your holiday is still a few weeks away and you'd like your baby or toddler to have a predictable sleep routine to ensure you all enjoy the trip, let's connect. Ideally, we should start working together at least two weeks before you leave. This gives us time to establish a good sleep routine for your child making them more rested for the holiday. This preparation also means they're less likely to be disrupted by the travel, and more likely to readjust smoothly when you return home.
Don’t wait—book a session or schedule your free 15-minute discovery call today. Let’s ensure you and your child are well-rested and ready to fully enjoy your holiday!
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