sleep

As winter sets in, it becomes crucial to pay extra attention to keeping our children warm during the cold nights, ensuring they have a restful sleep. Maintaining an ideal sleeping environment is key to achieving this, and here are some top tips to consider:

  1. Optimal Temperature Control: The recommended temperature for a child's bedroom is between 16-20 degrees Celsius. To monitor this, it is advisable to have a thermometer in your child’s room. This ensures that the room is neither too hot nor too cold, providing an ideal setting for a good night's sleep.
  2. Choose Sleeping Bags Over Blankets: Instead of using blankets, consider using sleeping bags. Blankets can be problematic as they may fall off or end up at the bottom of the bed or cot, leaving your child exposed to the cold. Sleeping bags provide a more consistent temperature and contribute to safer sleep.
  3. Opt for Higher Tog Sleeping Bags: Invest in sleeping bags with a higher tog rating or add layers of clothing to your child's sleepwear. Tog ratings indicate the warmth level of the sleeping bag. To determine the optimum combination of clothing and sleeping bag tog, refer to a helpful infographic for guidance.
  4. Avoid Proximity to Radiators or Hot Water Bottles: Refrain from placing the cot next to radiators or using hot water bottles. Infants, in particular, may struggle to regulate their body temperature or move away from excessive heat. This precautionary measure is essential to prevent overheating and maintain a comfortable sleep environment.
  5. Use the Back to Gauge Temperature: To assess whether your child is too hot or too cold, place your hand on their back. The back is a more accurate indicator than the hands or feet, as it is normal for the extremities to feel cooler. This tactile check provides a quick and effective way to monitor your child's comfort level.
  6. Seek Advice for Bedsharing: If your family opts for bedsharing, seek advice from reliable sources such as the Lullaby Trust. This organization offers support and guidelines for safe bed-sharing practices, ensuring that both parents and children can enjoy a secure and restful sleep experience.

In conclusion, by following these tips, you can create a cosy and safe sleep environment for your child during the winter months. Prioritising the right temperature, choosing appropriate sleep gear, and being mindful of potential hazards contribute to peaceful nights for the entire family. Here's to warm and restful nights for you and your loved ones this winter!

To continue viewing...
You must sign up to view more content and gain full access to bloss!
Sign up today

Sign up today for unlimited access:

  • Book appointments
  • Expert advice & tips
  • Premium videos & audio
  • Curated parenting newsletters
  • Chat with your bloss community
  • Discounts & competitions
  • Special events