Creating A Safe & Relaxing Sleep Environment For Your Baby

FILED UNDER

POSTED ON

9 April 2020
  • When looking at why our little ones aren’t sleeping well at night (or day), we check their awake windows, the lengths and number of naps, and their bedtime routine. However, how often do we look at their sleep environment? 

  • Your little one’s sleep environment is an essential part of the restful sleep puzzle. Just like we design our bedroom to be a relaxing place, it is imperative that we also make sure we set the scene for your child’s slumber haven. Below are some tips on how you can do just that.
  •  
  • CONTROL THE LIGHT
  •  
  • Your little one’s sleep environment should be as dark as possible. Blackout curtains are a great addition to their nursery in order to keep natural light from coming in through the window. It would be best if you also avoided night lights (babies do not fear the dark, keep in mind that they spent nine months in a womb.) 
  •  
  • Keeping your little one’s bedroom dark for sleep times will help establish their circadian rhythms. It also allows the body to release melatonin, the sleep hormone responsible for assisting the body in controlling sleep/wake cycles. It is normal for toddlers to start requesting a night light for comfort. In this case, it would be best to opt for warm lights rather than bright, cold ones.
  •  
  • THINK CALMING COLOURS
  •  
  • This may seem like a small detail, but choosing the right colours for your child’s nursery can be a game-changer. Cool colours, such as blues and purples, or earth tones and blushes, help relax the mind and the body, while bright colours, such as yellows and oranges, can be overstimulating.
  •  
  • TUNE IT OUT
  •  
  • White noise can help block out noises coming from outside or around the house. It is vital that you choose a continuous white noise machine (some devices automatically switch off after 30 minutes, resulting in your little one waking up soon after). Ensure that it is placed a minimum of 6 feet from your child’s cot. The sound should be low and consistent.
  •  
  • KEEP IT SAFE
  •  
  • The AAP recommends having a firm mattress and keeping the cot clear of any loose bedding or toys (including comforters). It is also recommended to skip the cot bumper and pillows. This is important to keep your little one as safe as possible.
  •  
  • KEEP YOUR BABY WARM (but not too warm)
  •  
  • The ideal temperature for sleep is 19-21C/ 69-73 F (consider purchasing a tabletop thermometer to monitor the room temperature). As stated above, you should avoid loose blankets. Instead, opt for a sleep-sack, which will ensure that your little one stays warm throughout the night without causing any safety hazards.
  •  
  • The above tips will help create a calming and safe sleep environment for your little one.

Did you adjust your baby’s sleep environment but need an extra hand with the other puzzle pieces to better sleep? Feel free to book a free consultation where we can discuss the best 1:1 package for your family.

Share this post

11 Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Becki Galea Portrait

Meet Becki 

A certified paediatric sleep consultant, potty training consultant & mother of two. I have been in your shoes, and my mission is to help families like yours achieve the peaceful sleep they need to lead happier lives. I also aim to make your little one’s potty training journey a positive and successful one. 

Every family & child is different, which is why I aim to always create an individual plan, especially for you. You are guaranteed ongoing guidance & support throughout the whole process; I will be with you to cheer you on through this journey. Together we can reach your family’s goals. 

search the site

featured posts

post categories

Popular Posts

Processing...