Sleep expert’s five easy tips to help kids fall asleep on Christmas Eve

It’s almost Christmas – are you as excited as we are?

On Thursday, we’ll be opening Christmas Eve pyjamas, tucking little ones into bed and hoping they sleep so that Father Christmas can put the presents under the tree.

And, maybe wrap a few he forgot about…

Unfortunately, the excitement of the most magical day of the year can be too much for some kids and they’re up until the small hours.

To help remedy this, sleep expert and founder of Kally Sleep, Ori Leslau, has put together his top tips to help you get your children to doze off on Christmas Eve.

Give them a shot for a peaceful Christmas eve:

1. Head outside for some fresh air

Enjoying time outside during the day goes a long way towards a good night’s sleep, as fresh air makes our bodies produce more serotonin, which in turn leaves us feeling happy and relaxed.

We naturally burn more energy when we’re outdoors too (especially in chillier weather) so it’s the perfect way to tire the kids out!

2. Stick to a routine

This one might be easier said than done but it’s still worth keeping as much of a normal routine as you can – even if it takes longer or happens later than usual!

Chat to your little ones about tomorrow, how it’s going to be different and what they can expect.

Then try to get back to normal bedtime routines once January comes around.

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3. Don’t eat late-night snacks

One of the best things about Christmas is the food! Whilst it’s lovely to indulge, keep an eye on how much sugar your kids are consuming.

Sugar can stimulate the body (we’ve all heard of “sugar highs”) which can then have a negative effect on quality of sleep.

Too much sugar can also make it hard to get to sleep in the first place.

Choose a cut off time a few hours before bedtime and avoid offering sweets and sugary treats after this time.

4. Try a bedtime distraction

If your child’s brain is buzzing with excitement on Christmas Eve and sleep is looking less and less likely, try getting them to settle with an audio book or some quiet music.

It might well help them to focus their minds on something, rather than laying there attempting to sleep before Santa arrives.

Once they’re calm and settled they’re much more likely to nod off naturally.

5. Take time to relax

Let’s face it, it’s been a crazy year, so why not take the time on Christmas Eve to chill out together as a family – do some baking, enjoy a film or play a game perhaps.

Set aside some time away from the internet or mobile phones and you’ll be amazed at how everyone relaxes and the kids calm down a lot too.

A great way to relax young toddlers is by using some basic relaxation techniques.

Cuddle them tightly to you while you breathe deeply and you’ll both feel calmer and de-stressed.

Read more about how to get your children to sleep on Christmas Eve, including more quick tips here.

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