As I mentioned before, summer is a very challenging time for sleep. The days are long and bright! This can lead to toddlers refusing to go to bed because it's bright outside or waking up early because, well... it’s bright outside.
Also, there are so many cool things to do in the summer—pool, beach, travel, etc. Who wants to sleep when there is so much going on? Your baby does! Your baby wants and needs to sleep.
I came up with this short but mighty list to support your baby's and toddler's sleep during the summer:
1. Portable White Noise Machine
For naps on the go because this will definitely happen over the summer. Let’s be honest, it can be kind of annoying to go back home every time your baby needs to nap, especially for babies that are on a 3-nap schedule. Having all the things to support naps on the go can be a game-changer, and a portable white noise machine can help block out all the outdoor noise. When my kids were babies, they would sleep in the stroller at the pool, and it was great to have that hour for myself.
2. Slumber Pod
This is great for traveling. I never used one because most places I traveled with my kids when they were babies had blackout curtains. However, if you are going to a hotel or someplace where you’re not sure it has a dark room, definitely get one. Also, I have worked with families that use this slumber pod at home instead of installing blackout curtains.
3. Stroller Fan
Another goodie for naps on the go. We want our babies to be comfortable; if they are hot, they might struggle a bit more. Keep in mind that they need a nice and cool environment.
4. Summer Sleep Sack
Sleep sacks are always a good idea—for swaddling in the first months and as a blanket for older babies and toddlers. It is important to choose the right fabric so that our babies don’t become overheated. I love muslin or cotton sleep sacks like Halo Sleep Sacks.
5. Stroller Cover
Ok, so we are out and about, we have the white noise and the fan, but we can also offer some darkness. This stroller cover is great. I didn’t know they even existed, so I used to use a blanket over my stroller, but this one is really great. Just make sure the temperature under the cover is safe.
6. Portable Bassinet
This bassinet might not only be for naps, but it is a great spot for babies. I have seen families with these bassinets at the pool or even the beach, and babies just seem so content and relaxed there.
7. Ok to Wake Clock
As I mentioned in the beginning, with days being so much longer (where I live, sunrise happens around 5:30 am and sunset around 8:30 pm!), this clock can help your toddler understand when it is the right time to go to bed and when it is okay to wake up. There is work to be done around this; you will need to tell your little one that they are not supposed to wake up or leave bed until the light is green (or any other color you pick).
The good thing is that these products are not only useful for the summer—you will use them later too! Let me know in the comments if there are any other summer sleep products you love!
Ready to make your baby's sleep better this summer? Schedule a free call with me to discuss personalized sleep strategies and get the support you need. Click here to book your free call now!
Comentarios