Surviving the Sleep Changes that come with Summer

With summer comes vacations, beach days, bonfire nights and all kinds of schedule changes, but as with most aspects of your child’s life; consistency is key!
A child who is usually well-rested can overcome some minor schedule changes here and there but will definitely be affected if his or her routine is totally thrown off or inconsistent for a length of time.
Here are some tips to keep your child’s sleep schedule intact during your family’s summer vacation:

Make sure naps are still a priority.
Try to schedule activities around nap times as much as possible. If a nap has to be missed because of traveling, excursions, activities etc. make sure they at least get some down time, even if it’s in the car or stroller to bridge them until bedtime.

When they have missed sleep (naps) make up for it at bedtime.
If naps are missed, taken in the car/stroller or and earlier than normal wake times is necessary, make sure bedtime is super early that night to make up for the missed sleep opportunity. This will not only keep them well- rested, but avoid a cranky, whining child come evening.

Keep sleep routine consistent as much as possible.
If you will be sleeping away from home try to make your child’s sleep environment as close to home as possible. Use the same sheets (don’t wash them), pyjamas, and bedding as they do at home. Make the room as close to the same as their own by using black-out curtains (garbage bags work too) and noise machines. And keep the bedtime routine the same so they still know what to expect when bedtime/nap time is approaching. Read the same book, sing the same song etc.

Enjoy the Outdoors!
Summer is for enjoying time outside, but with that comes a lot more activity for your little one. Be prepared to move bedtime earlier on the days your family has been more active than usual as your child will be tuckered out from all the fun in the sun!