Ep. 3 | Get 86 Minutes More Sleep With This One Tip

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Good sleep is essential for both children and parents. In this episode of Cozy Little Convos, I delve into the topic of bedtime routines and their impact on infant and toddler sleep. I discuss the significance of bedtime routines and share insights on how implementing a consistent routine can result in up to 86 minutes of extra sleep for young children. Let's dive deeper into the importance of bedtime routines and how they can positively impact the quality of sleep for both parents and children.

The Impact of Bedtime Routines on Sleep Duration

There is a profound impact of consistent bedtime routines on sleep duration for infants and toddlers. There is a sleep study I want to highlight that cites infants who have a regular bedtime routine sleep an average of 86 minutes longer than those who do not. This statistic underscores the significance of incorporating a structured bedtime routine to facilitate extended and uninterrupted periods of sleep for young children.

Creating a Simple, Sustainable, and Predictable Bedtime Routine

I want to emphasize the simplicity, sustainability, and predictability of an effective bedtime routine. I can reassure parents that bedtime routines need not be elaborate or time-consuming. Instead, they should be personalized to fit the family's lifestyle and values. In the episode I share a sample bedtime routine, advocating for basic steps such as bathing or wiping down with a warm washcloth, changing into pajamas, a bedtime feeding, reading a book, and then the actual bedtime. Consistency is key for creating a sense of safety and security for children, allowing them to predict and prepare for the transition to sleep.

Adapting Bedtime Routines for Different Developmental Stages

As children grow, their bedtime routines can evolve to meet their changing needs. I discuss the adaptability of bedtime routines, offering guidance on how parents can modify the routine as your children develop. For toddlers, I suggest incorporating activities to expend energy before bedtime, allowing children to "get their wiggles out" to facilitate a smoother transition to sleep. I also share personal experiences related to adjusting bedtime routines when accommodating an additional child, providing valuable insights for parents expecting or welcoming new siblings.

Taking the First Step towards Better Sleep

I want to encourage parents to initiate and maintain bedtime routines as an essential first step toward achieving longer and more restful sleep for their children. There is no "wrong" time to start a bedtime routine. It is important to simply get started to establish a consistent and comforting nighttime ritual for children.

If you need help in any way to get better sleep (whether that be your baby or YOU), I would like to provide some valuable resources to support parents seeking to improve their children's sleep quality. Explore the free guides and resources designed to address various sleep-related challenges encountered by families.

Connect with Alice:

• Instagram - @cozybabysleep
• Facebook - @cozybabysleep
• TikTok - @cozybabysleep
• Cozy Baby Sleep Links
• Website - www.cozybabysleep.com

Links mentioned in episode:

• Sleep Study Article
• Free Sleep Help Resources
• Cozy Baby Sleep Links 

Previous Blog Posts:

• 1. Our Baby Sleep Story
• 2. Practical Tips for Managing Separation Anxiety in Babies and Toddlers

WELCOME TO COZY LITTLE CONVOS

Have you ever stressed out over your baby or toddler's sleep? Are you tired of feeling like you are doing everything wrong?

Well you're in the right place. In this podcast you will not only learn tangible tips and tricks to help your little one sleep better, but also how to do it with balance and confidence in yourself as the parent.

Hi! I'm Alice, Mum of 2 and certified sleep consultant. My sleep philosophy revolves around safe, loving, and research based sleep techniques while also holding space for real life.

This is a zero judgment community of moms who want to get the best sleep for the whole family, in a way that makes them feel good!