June 2023
Sleeping Soundly | How To Help Your Little One Nap During Hot Summer Nights
Attention, exhausted mamas! As the sun blazes high in the summer sky, do you find yourself locked in a battle to coax your little angel into a peaceful slumber of rest? Don’t panic, because we’re here to rescue those precious nap times and bedtimes from the clutches of the sweltering heat!
This blog is your go-to guide for unraveling the secrets to helping your little one find serenity amidst those hot summer nights. We understand the struggles and we’re ready to equip you with a bunch of tips and tricks that will turn those restless nights into blissful dreams. So, grab a cool drink, find a cosy nook, and prepare to discover the key to ensuring your little darling naps like a champion throughout the steamy season.
Ready to create a haven of tranquil slumber for both you and your baby? Read below
As parents, we’ve all experienced the struggle of trying to settle our newborns and babies to sleep during this season. But why is it that the summer months pose such a challenge for their sleep? Well, it turns out there are a few culprits conspiring against our little ones’ peaceful rest.
First, the rising temperatures can make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature, leaving them sweaty and uncomfortable (yuck!).
Additionally, the extended daylight hours can throw off their internal sleep-wake cycles, making it harder for them to distinguish between daytime and night-time.
And let’s not forget the bustling sounds of summer, from chirping birds to giggling children at play, creating a symphony that can disrupt even the soundest of sleepers.
So now we know WHY it’s so difficult for our little ones to rest, let’s dive in and empower you with the knowledge and strategies to restore the restful nights and peaceful naps your little ones truly deserve.
Keep their bedroom cool:
Ensure your baby’s sleep environment is comfortably cool. Use a fan or air conditioning to maintain a temperature that promotes restful sleep. Lightweight, breathable pyjamas and a light blanket (if needed) can help regulate their body temperature. In the peak summer days, keep the room dark throughout the day, keep blinds shut and the windows closed. This will help deflect the sun and heat from getting into their room.
Block out the light:
Longer daylight hours can confuse your baby’s internal clock. Invest in blackout curtains or blinds to create a dark and sleep-friendly environment. Blocking out excess light signals, tell their brain that it’s time for rest, even if the sun is still shining outside.
Optimise naptime schedules:
Adjust your little one’s nap schedule to align with their natural sleep cues at the cooler parts of the day. Avoid scheduling naps too close to bedtime to ensure they’re tired enough for a full night’s sleep. Consistency and routine are key!
Dress them comfortably:
Choose lightweight and breathable fabrics for your baby’s daytime and bedtime attire. Opt for loose-fitting clothes to allow air circulation and prevent overheating. Consider using a light cotton sleep sack instead of blankets for added safety and comfort.
Establish a soothing bedtime routine:
A calming routine before bed helps signal to your baby that it’s time to wind down. Incorporate activities such as a warm (not hot) bath, gentle massage, lullabies, or a quiet story. Dim the lights and create a peaceful atmosphere to promote relaxation before sleep.
White Noise:
Use a white noise machine or download an app on your phone, and play a gentle humming noise. White noise refers to a constant, soothing sound that can help drown out noises from the surrounding environment, such as traffic, people talking, or outdoor activities. It creates a consistent background sound that can help mask sudden noises and promote uninterrupted sleep. Our personal favourite is the fan noise!
Hydration is key:
While it’s essential to keep your little one hydrated, especially during hot summer nights, giving them a cold drink of water before bed may not be the best option. Offering a cold drink of water right before bedtime can actually stimulate their system and make it more challenging for them to settle down for sleep. Instead, focus on keeping them hydrated throughout the day by offering regular sips of water at appropriate intervals.
Ensure your baby has access to water during the day, especially during periods of increased activity or when spending time outdoors in the heat. Offer small amounts of water in a sippy cup or a bottle, depending on their age and developmental stage. Monitor their urine output and general well-being to ensure they are adequately hydrated.
Now that you’re equipped with our list of tips and tricks to help your precious little one get a good night’s sleep during the summer months, we hope you and your baby can finally enjoy restful nights and rejuvenating slumber.;
By implementing strategies like keeping the room cool, establishing soothing routines, and blocking out external sounds, you’re creating a tranquil haven for your little one’s peaceful dreams. Remember, each baby is unique, so feel free to tailor these tips to suit your child’s specific needs. We wish you and your baby countless nights of sweet, uninterrupted sleep, allowing you to embrace the joys of summer fully. Sleep tight, dear mums, and may you wake up refreshed, ready to conquer each sunny day that lies ahead!
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