Helping your child stick to a good sleep routine to minimise stress #AD

**This is a paid post in conjunction with TEMPUR®, as always all thoughts and opinions are my own**

It’s safe to say that we’ve all dealt with the lockdown in different ways. And as adults, our minds are typically better equipped due to age and prior levels of stress that help us to pivot and understand how to focus and remain calm. But when it comes to the kids, what are some simple ways that we can help them minimise stress and be ready to get back out into the world and function?

Luckily there are several simple steps that you can take at home to help them focus on their own mental health while getting back into the swing of their everyday lives as well. 

Tips for helping your child minimise stress

During a time like this, finding ways to help our children navigate the world and minimise stress is key. These simple ideas are a good way to help your child through these unprecedented times, all from the comfort of home.

• Set and adhere to a bedtime routine for your child

Sleep is imperative for children because they’re growing brains and bodies need that rest. Being able to set a bedtime routine for your children and then stick to it is a great way to help them process and be ready for the day. 

This can be as simple as setting a time for bed and sticking to it each night or actually having a good routine leading right up to the moment that they go to bed. Reading a book, running a bath, and snuggling for a bit are also ways that you can establish and set up a routine with your child, too. 

• Invest in a good sleep mattress for your child

It’s no fun sleeping on something that just isn’t comfortable. Even for kids who are resilient, they need a great mattress that they can lay down and easily find comfort. When choosing a mattress for your child, make certain that you use a mattress size guide to figure out the best option for their size and body as well.

This way you can rest easy knowing that you’ve done your research and are purchasing the best possible mattress for them to get the best possible sleep, too. 

• Talk to them about the importance of sleep hygiene

This can mean a number of different things but basically, you’re wanting to show your child that keeping their mattress area and their bedding clean is a great way to give them the best possible rest easily. Washing the bedding, cleaning the mattress, fluffing and cleaning their pillows, and making certain that they change out of any clothes that they’ve been in during the day before hopping into bed are all ways that they can take care of their sleep hygiene on a daily basis. 

These past few months have been a trying time for families and children but there are steps that you can start taking now to help get their stress levels under control. Start with these tips in regard to their sleep schedule and bedding situation at home and you’ll be amazed at how much difference it can make.

Your child will love being able to sleep in a comfortable bed and wake up feeling rested and ready to tackle the day! and it is best to start early in the school holidays reestablishing a routine again ready for the return back to school.