When my children were younger we opted for UK based holidays. Often it was visiting family, but sometimes somewhere new! I did worry about them sleeping away from home however.
It can be exciting to get out of your normal routine (and maybe the washing up), however it can also make some parents worried about how they are going to sleep whilst away from home. Here are my top tips about how to try and maintain your little ones sleep whilst sleeping away from home.
Top tips for sleeping away from home
- Stick to Your Routine
- Try and stick to your child’s regular routine as much as possible.
- Naps on the go or slightly later bedtimes are okay, but try not to let it become all of their naps and bedtime whilst away.
- Avoid overtiredness by sticking to familiar sleep times to help them settle easier at night.
- Replicate the Home Sleep Environment
- Bring white noise machines if they use one at home.
- Pack a portable blackout blind if they sleep in a dark room.
- Don’t forget their favorite comforter, blanket, or pillow.
- Use their bedding from home to provide familiar smells and comfort.
- Plan Travel Around Nap Times
- Time long drives around your little one’s naps to ensure they get some sleep during the journey.
- Create a Private Sleep Space
- If your child is older than 8 months and doesn’t have their own room, create a private sleep area using a partition or screen.
- This helps them feel secure and reduces distractions. It can also be helpful if you are in a hotel room together.
- Don’t Over-Schedule
- While it’s exciting to explore new places, over-scheduling can lead to an overtired child.
- Scale back your itinerary and spread out activities.
- Allow for earlier bedtimes if your child shows signs of tiredness.
- Older children can also benefit from a bit of quiet time during the day
- Stay Consistent with Boundaries
- It’s normal for babies and toddlers to test sleep boundaries in new environments.
- Handle this by maintaining consistency with your usual bedtime routine.
- Offer reassurance but stick to your rules to help them adjust quickly to the new environment.
- Fresh Air and Exercise
- Fresh air and physical activity can help your child sleep better.
- Make the most of being outside!
Explore Essex for Your Next Family Holiday
- Outdoor Adventures
- Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Essex countryside with a trip to Epping Forest for nature walks and wildlife spotting.
- Visit the Essex Wildlife Trust’s various nature reserves for a day of exploration and learning.
- Seaside Fun
- Head to the famous seaside town of Southend-on-Sea for a day at the beach, complete with amusement parks and a long pier.
- Clacton-on-Sea offers a traditional beach experience with its charming promenade and family-friendly attractions.
- Historical Sites
- Discover the history of Colchester, Britain’s oldest recorded town, with its Roman walls and Colchester Castle.
- Explore Audley End House and Gardens, a magnificent Jacobean mansion with extensive grounds perfect for a family day out.
If you have been putting off having a holiday because your child’s sleep is really tough, I can help. Book in a free 15 minute call to discuss how my supportive approach could be right for you.
