The festive season often brings opportunities to spend time with loved ones, which can mean sleeping away from home. While these trips are filled with joy and memory-making, they can also spark concerns about disrupted sleep—especially if your child’s sleep is already a challenge at home.
A good night’s sleep is important for the whole family, but festive trips should also be about creating special moments. With some preparation and flexibility, you can support your child’s sleep while enjoying your time together.
Familiarity is Key
Pack your child’s favourite blanket, stuffed animal, or any item they associate with sleep. Familiar scents and textures can provide comfort, helping your child feel more secure and relaxed in a new environment. If possible, take a sheet they’ve slept on or a sleeping bag they’ve used recently, as these can carry the reassuring smell of home. Don’t forget practical items like a monitor if you use one, as well as a white noise machine or a Gro-clock. These tools can help create a sense of normalcy and mask unfamiliar sounds, making it easier for your child to settle.
Stick to What Works
While it’s tempting to let routines slide during holidays, maintaining key elements of your child’s usual bedtime routine can provide stability. Whether it’s a story, a bath, or a particular lullaby, these rituals signal that it’s time for sleep, even in a different environment.
Try to stick to your child’s general sleep schedule, adjusting for travel where necessary. If bedtime shifts by an hour or so, aim to bring it back gradually over the following nights.
Set Up a Sleep-Friendly Space
Recreating a calming sleep environment may require a little extra effort, but it’s worth it. If your child sleeps in a dark room at home, consider packing portable blackout curtains or using a travel blackout blind. A white noise machine or app can also help mask unfamiliar sounds, creating a soothing atmosphere.
For those who bed-share, ensure the sleeping setup is safe and meets current guidelines from organisations like the Lullaby Trust (add lullaby trust link) , especially when the arrangement differs from your usual setup.
Patience and Positivity
Even with the best preparation, sleeping away from home can be a bit different. Some children adapt quickly, while others need a few nights to settle. Be patient and reassuring, helping them feel secure while gently encouraging sleep. For older children, relaxation techniques like visualising a breathing star can be calming.
Embrace the Memories
While maintaining sleep routines is helpful, it’s equally important to remain flexible. Christmas is about creating special memories, and the odd later bedtime or shorter nap won’t undo all your hard work. If sleep is a little disrupted, focus on making the most of your trip and plan to return to normal routines once you’re home.
The festive season is a time for connection, joy, and celebration. With a thoughtful approach to your child’s sleep, you can balance rest and fun, making the most of every moment. If you’d like more tailored advice or support, I’m here to help.
If things go off track and you’d like some advice to get back on track after Christmas, book a call.
