I have watched Super Nanny, etc. and remember her systems – which can be lengthy and time consuming. Here are some of my quick and easy steps. These minor adjustments can fit simply into your sleep routine to get those kiddos sleeping easier and better.
Let me know how these work for you?
Sleep Hacks
1. Warm Milk + something sweet
Warm milk, or steamed milk, has tryptophan but the system takes awhile for the hormone to pass across the blood-brain barrier. Protein-rich foods, like dairy, can increase serotonin “the calming hormone”.
The milk alone doesn’t taste that great, so we usually give a spoonful of honey, or some caramel, or even some marshmallow.
2. Lavender
I remember seeing several baby products: bath oils, lotion, etc. and always wondered why Lavender was always used?
Try a few drops of Lavender on the pillow on their favorite sleep friend. It does wonders. [Plus, there are a slew of other uses for Lavender Essential Oil, as you will find on the featured link].
or try this blend of oils as a topical roll-on or in a diffuser:
- 3 drops of Frankincense (this oils helps alleviate nervous energy)
- 5 drops of Peace & Calming (like it’s name suggests, this is very calming and promotes rest)
- 5 drops of Lavender (helps you to relax and unwind)
3. Weighted Blankets
Placing gentle pressure on kids with a weighed blanket supposedly helps the body produce chemicals (serotonin and endorphins) that are naturally needed to fall asleep. It can also feel like a snug and protected hug/cocoon.
4. Black-out Curtains
Imagine a warm and comfy cave setting. Darkening up their bedroom can help immensely. You can add a night-light, but try and keep the room as dark as possible. We installed a tent over the bed, to help with that. [Link to DIY Bed Tent]
5. Once they are asleep – Keep them there
You can check periodically… or hide the good ole baby monitor to listen in.
These tips and some variation of them, have helped us at different stages of our daughter’s growth. Feel free to tweak or make your own suggestions below. I’d love to find out what works for your family.
[I am not a doctor, just a mom.]
You are more than welcome to request samples or purchase oils directly from me.