Have Sippy Will Travel

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Holiday excitement = over stimulated little ones who just can’t sleep. Sleep experts Cloud b and Kim West (The Sleep Lady®), offer timely tips and healthy solutions for tired toddlers and pooped parents.

Sleep in One Place While You’re Away

Ideally, plan to sleep in the same space during your stay, as constant change is hard on babies. Having a consistent “sleep space” even if it’s not home is comforting and will help you to keep your routine as close to normal as possible. Choose the home of one set of grandparents/relatives as a “base camp” and arrange to have relatives come there to visit your little one.

Keep Your Flexible Schedule As Close to Normal As Possible

Knowing that your child may be staying up late and getting additional stimulation (grandparents and presents!), make sure that your child is at least offered naps, especially if you are traveling with a small baby who still needs daytime sleep. Talk to your family and find a quiet, dark place where your baby can nap consistently during your visit, even if it is different than your nighttime sleep arrangements.

Prepare for Some Late Nights

A late night here and there isn’t as problematic as multiple late nights especially if combined with skipped naps. Get the naps in on-the-go in a stroller or a car ride! Put baby to bed in a portable pack-n-play if you’re out beyond baby’s bedtime.

Don’t Forget the Lovey

If your child sleeps with a lovey, be sure to bring it with you when you travel, so that your child has something familiar in the midst of change. The same goes with a sleep sack from home (if you use one), and even their favorite toys or bedtime story. Keeping as much “normal” as possible can help to encourage sleep continuity. It’s especially helpful to pack along toys specifically designed to help children sleep.