Sleep disturbed: our advice to spend better nights!

A whole range of factors can disturb children’s sleep. Luckily, there are a number of things you can do about them!

A sleep “debt”

An accumulated lack of sleep is a very common problem in young children. In this case, they generally wake up too early (around 6 a.m. or even earlier), they make wake several times through the night, cry a lot when put to bed and the quality of their daytime naps suffers. They are down on sleep so they sleep less well, and so it goes on. It truly is a vicious circle! So what’s the solution? Put them to bed earlier and try to stick to a routine that is as regular as possible, for both naps and mealtimes.

Sore gums

All babies are affected by teething and for some it can be a particularly painful process. And when they lie down, it can be even worse. This can make getting them off to sleep extremely difficult. Try raising your baby’s head using a large pillow to make them more comfortable. You could also try using homeopathic remedies. And don’t hesitate to give them a teething toy to gnaw on during the day. The pressure helps soothe sore gums.

Tummy troubles

During the first few months of life, babies often suffer from the infamous “colic”. They start to cry and squirm in pain whenever night falls. A gentle tummy massage just before bedtime may help calm them. Or you could try the swaddling method, as being all wrapped up can reassure and soothe little ones. Older children may find it difficult to get to sleep if their meal has contained too much protein, fat or sugar. So watch what you put on their plates!

A lack of bedtime routine

Maybe the atmosphere before bedtime isn’t ideal to prepare them for sleep? Avoid screens and games that get your kids over-excited in the hour before bedtime. Instead, suggest a quiet activity or play soothing music. And, most important of all, establish a bedtime routine. This should consist of three phases: washing and tooth brushing, relaxation, and cuddles. Repeating the same routine reassures little ones and helps them fall asleep. Do you want to establish a routine to help your little one get a good night’s sleep? Urban Hello’s REMI is the ideal connected sleep trainer to help kids sleep better. See for yourself!