Summer Sleep Tips for Babies and Toddlers
Summer brings longer days, warmer nights, and often, a more relaxed routine for many families. While these changes can be enjoyable, they can also pose challenges for maintaining your little one's sleep schedule. Here are some tips to help you navigate the summer months and ensure your child continues to get the rest they need.
Keep the Environment Dark…
If you’re anything like me, you love that summer brings warmer weather and lots of sunshine. But as much as we love the sun during the day, it’s not as helpful during the evening hours when babies and toddlers are trying to wind down and go to sleep. For some sensitive kiddos, the full brightness at 6:30/7pm can make it hard for them to fall asleep. To help with this, try to lower the shades in the evening and invest in some good blackout curtains to help get their sleep space nice and dark!
…and the Clothing Light
Summer also means warmer temperatures. Great for enjoying those daytime activities, but not so great for sleep. The ideal temperature for a baby’s or child’s room is between 69-72 degrees Fahrenheit. If you don’t have the ability to monitor the exact temperature, make sure baby is cool by dressing them in light PJs or t-shirt onesies. If you use a sleep sack, try switching to a super light material (0.5 TOG.) A onesie and light sleep sack should keep them comfortable even in slightly warmer temps!
Limit Summer Treats for Toddlers
It’s summer, which means it’s time to treat yourself! Ice cream, popsicles, snow cones, Italian ice—whatever your frosty treat of choice is, try to offer them to your toddler earlier in the day (ideally 2-3 hours before bed) so that it doesn’t interfere with their energy at bedtime. High sugar intake close to bedtime can make it harder for your toddler to wind down and fall asleep.
Allow for Earlier Bedtimes
Summer tends to come with a more relaxed schedule and more activities—whether it’s summer camps, music classes, storytime, trips to the playground, or vacation. All of these things can mean that your daytime schedules might be a bit disrupted. While a consistent nap schedule and daytime routine is best for maintaining good nighttime sleep, summer is meant to be enjoyed (especially if you live in the Midwest, where we only get 3 good months of warmth and sun). Added activities, skipped naps, and summer sun may leave your little one pooped by the end of the day. Try to leave space to offer a slightly earlier bedtime so that your baby can get the rest they need!
Enjoy Some Summer Sun!
Spending time outdoors and soaking up some natural sunlight can be very beneficial for your child’s circadian rhythm. Natural light helps regulate the body’s internal clock, making it easier for your baby or toddler to fall asleep at night. Aim for some outdoor playtime in the morning or early afternoon to help set their internal clock.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your baby or toddler enjoys restful sleep throughout the summer, enabling them to make the most of this fun and active season.
For personalized sleep solutions, feel free to reach out to Sleep Solutions by Cara. Sweet dreams!
