Vacations are an exciting time for families but can also disrupt a child’s sleep routine. With new surroundings, different schedules, and lots of excitement, it’s no wonder that little ones have a hard time getting quality sleep while on vacation. However, there are some things parents can do to help their children get the rest they need.
Stick To A Schedule
While it may be tempting to let your child stay up late to enjoy the vacation, it’s essential to keep to their regular sleep schedule as much as possible. Try to keep their bedtime and wake-up times consistent with what they are used to at home. It will help them adjust more quickly to the new environment and avoid sleep deprivation.
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Bring Familiar Items
A child’s favorite stuffed animal or blanket can provide comfort and a sense of security in a new place. Bringing along these familiar items can help them feel more at ease and make it easier to fall asleep.
Create A Relaxing Environment
Try to make your child’s sleeping environment as similar as possible to their bedroom at home. Use blackout curtains to keep the room dark and noise levels low. You could also consider bringing a white noise machine to drown out any unfamiliar noises.
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Get Plenty Of Exercises
Vacations are an excellent opportunity to get outside and explore new places. Be active with your child, whether playing on the beach or hiking with the family. Physical activity can help them get tired and ready for bed at night.
Be Patient
Remember that it may take your child a few days to adjust to the new surroundings and schedule. Be patient and understanding if they have trouble falling asleep or waking up during the night. With time and consistency, they will likely adapt and start sleeping more soundly.