Stick to Sleep Routines for a Peaceful Christmas and a Happy New Year
The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) has created a list of tried and true tips
designed to keep families on track -- even when festivities may interfere with
children's sleep.
The recommended amount of sleep a child needs each night varies with age:
Toddlers (1-3 years): 12-14 hours
Preschoolers (3-5 years): 11-13 hours
In order to maintain a good sleep schedule when day-to-day schedules are in flux,
NSF recommends the following:
Let the Fun Begin ... Early!: Get an early start on Christmas
activities to maximize the time your children get to have fun while still
getting to bed at a reasonable hour.
Moderation, Moderation, Moderation: Pay close attention to the amount of sweets and desserts children eat. Too many sweet things may lead to stomach aches and illness during the night. In addition, many soft drinks and some chocolates
contain caffeine that may keep them awake.
Watch for Nightmares: Watch your child closely to ensure that he/she
is not anxious. If he/she seems nervous or frightened, spend some extra time
comforting him or her. If your child is particularly sensitive, don't tell them that
Father Christmas is going to come into their bedroom with presents. Say he will
leave them under the tree instead. Note, however, that nightmares and night time
fears are common disorders with children
(see our article on the subject). Sleep deprivation, anxiety and changes to a child's sleep routine may increase the likelihood of these and other sleep related issues.
Manage Expectations: Discuss the plan for the Christmas period and put an emphasis on the fact that you will be keeping to the regular sleep routine. Naturally,
kids will be excited. Allow enough wind down time and follow normal sleep habits (such
as a bath or shower before bed and story time) to help your child settle down to sleep
after an exciting Christmas Day, Boxing Day etc.