Holiday Travel Can Bust Kids' Sleep Routines

You’ve spent considerable time and effort making sure your child has a healthy sleep schedule – a calming routine that includes consistent bed times and regular naps. But with Thanksgiving just a sweet potato away, holiday travel plans might threaten to wreak havoc on your perfect sleeper’s snooze time.

But, says “Sleepytime Coach” Alison Bevan, “It doesn’t have to.” Bevan, a Norwalk-based child sleep expert who helps parents solve children’s sleep problems, says: “With a little planning and preparation, you can travel and still have a happy and well rested child.” Actress-turned-"sleepytime" coach, Bevan appeared in leading roles in such venerated productions as "City of Angels" and "Steel Pier," among others. She also appeared in plays at Elmsford's Westchester Broadway Theatre before turning her talent toward her son, who was a troubled sleeper as an infant. 

In preparation for a trip, Bevan recommends parents think about how they can make their child’s temporary bed or crib as sleep-friendly as possible. “If you’re staying in a hotel, find out if the facility provides portable cribs, “pack-n-plays” or roll-away cots.” She adds that bringing along some familiar items, such as sheets or favorite familiar blankets and pillows, can help your child feel comfortable. If you’re travelling by air, be sure to pack them in your carry-on bag. You’ll need them handy in the event that checked baggage is delayed or lost.

Additionally, says Bevan, don’t forget a night-light, favorite bedtime books and music. And consider placing a rollaway mattress on the floor of the hotel room to avoid middle of the night tumbles.

Are you staying with relatives? Bevan suggests asking them for help in locating a borrowed crib or “pack-n play” (be sure they are sturdy, newer models, as older cribs could pose safety risks). “Some of my clients even purchase an extra crib to leave with relatives,” she says. “If you visit frequently or there are other family members who visit with their children, you can split the cost. It’s a great investment and can be a lifesaver.”

Bevan stresses that if parents share a room or bed with children on vacation, they should follow safety guidelines regarding infants, and be clear with older children that the arrangement is temporary.

Bevan also suggests brining along a monitor on the trip, so you can listen in on your sleeping child while still enjoying a childfree evening.

Keeping your child rested is key to a successful vacation for all of you, says Bevan. “Two-and-a-half or three year-olds might be able to skip naps, but younger children definitely still need to nap every day. Do your best to carve out downtime.”

She adds: “Avoiding their over-tired meltdowns and respecting your child’s need for sleep will keep everyone happy and make the transition back home to their regular routine a breeze,” says Bevan. A rested child is always a happier child, a state that certainly makes for a happier vacation, she says.

 

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