Sleep tips (a few things I learned)

Sleeping seems to be an issue for every baby at some point. So, here are a few tips I learned and want to pass along.

1. Have a routine.
We have dinner every night around 6. Afterward, we take the kids for a short walk. On bath nights, we give baths on their return. Then, we dress the kids in pjs. We give them a smoothie or a cup of milk. We play for a bit, read books, or watch a short (educational) show together. Then we brush teeth, put them in their sleep sacks, give hugs and kisses, give them their lovies, and turn out the light. We don’t go back in unless it sounds like someone is hurt. They talk to themselves, each other, and their toys… but generally, they soothe themselves and go right to sleep.

2. Make the room dark.
We put a blanket over their window so their room is very dark. There is a nightlight, but it is around a dresser. So, it is not glaring, but allows us to sneak in to check on them.

3. Have some sort of white noise type machine.
We have an air purifier in their room. But I also bought a travel machine that is small and compact. By having constant noise, they are not disturbed by outside noises. I have recommended this to MANY parents of children who were having trouble sleeping through the night… it does WONDERS!!!! You can also use a fan (don’t point it at them) or a dehumidifier. Just make sure it is in a safe place and can not be disturbed by little fingers. In a pinch you can use a radio tuned to static. We did this when visiting my sister last summer.
We even have a noise machine in our room… and let me tell you, it makes a difference for adults too! I no longer jump ever time someone coughs or rolls over.

Some people do music before sleep or routines that can only be done at home. The key is, make sure whatever you do, it can be repeated no matter where you are. And that you are prepared for things like power going out (another situation where the travel noise machine would come in handy).