Making sure your children have a good sleep is extremely important, as it aids their growing minds and bodies. February marks Children’s Sleep Awareness Month, and together with The Sleep Charity, we are championing better practices for how you can help your children feel warm, safe and comfortable, encouraging them to feel settled ahead of bedtime. Lisa Artis, Deputy CEO of The Sleep Charity explains how consistent routines, a calm environment and thermal products can signal to the body that it’s time to rest. Our Sleep Charity collection provides all cosy bedtime essentials your little one will need.
The Cosy Countdown to Bed
Creating a calming wind-down period before bedtime is one of the most effective ways to help children prepare to get comfy in bed. The Sleep Charity recommends:
- Screen ban. Turn off any devices to signal to the body it’s time to relax.
- Lower the lights. Dimming the lights helps to support the body’s natural production of melatonin, the hormone that makes us sleepy.
- Choose calm activities. Whether it be colouring, puzzles, reading or crafts, not only is this a chance to bond with your child, but it helps children to feel secure and settled.
- A warm bath. A cosy soak half an hour before bed helps to prepare the body for sleep as the core temperature gradually cools afterwards.
- Adding in cosy layers to their routine, such as thermal loungewear, can be an extra comforting cue that bedtime is approaching. We recommend our Kids Mega Hoodies and Character Slipper Socks to help them slip into ultimate comfort.
Setting Up the Perfect Sleep Space
It is essential to ensure your child has a sleep environment that encourages them to happily settle down and drift off to a restful night's sleep. Lisa recommends your child should have the following:
- A cool, dark and quiet room. A temperature of around 18 - 20°C is recommended, along with blackout curtains.
- Cosy blankets. Our thermal blankets can help children feel relaxed and provide reassurance.
- Bedtime essentials and comfort companions. Letting your little one bring their favourite blanket, cuddly toy or book to bed with them can boost their sense of security and control.
The Importance of an Established Routine
Getting a good night’s sleep does not just come down to just the hours slept, but quality, consistency and emotional security are also vital. By combining structured routines, a soothing environment and comforting, special touches, parents and carers can help make their children sleep better. During this Children’s Sleep Awareness Month, together with The Sleep Charity, we can make small changes and enhance cosiness to make a big and better difference for our little ones.
To find out more about the incredible work The Sleep Charity do, click here.
