Like adults, some kids find it hard to get enough rest every day. Several factors can contribute to this, like a hectic schedule, stress, or a change in routine. They need to go to school, do homework, take care of extracurricular activities, and see their friends. It can be challenging for them to find time to wind down at the end of the day.
And even though they seem energetic enough to keep going, not getting enough rest can have a real impact on kids’ health. It can make them moody, irritable, and more prone to accidents. It can also lead to longer-term problems like obesity and depression. There are several things you can do as a parent to help your kids get enough rest, and here are some of them:
Make Sure They Sleep Soundly
We all know how important it is to get enough sleep, but sometimes it can be hard to wind down at the end of the day. If you’re looking for a way to help your kids (or yourself) get a good night’s rest, a massage with peppermint oil may be just what you need. Peppermint oil is known for its calming and soothing properties, and research has shown that it can help promote deep sleep.
Simply massage a small amount of oil into the temples and neck before bedtime. You can also add a few drops to a diffuser to enjoy the benefits throughout the night. With regular use, peppermint oil can help to improve sleep quality and duration, making it an essential tool for anyone who wants to get a good night’s rest.
Rest After School
One way to give your child ample rest time is to let them rest after school hours. This means no homework, no after-school activities, and no screen time for at least an hour or two. During this period, you can encourage your kids to read, play quiet games, or just relax. This will help them wind down from the day and prepare for a good night’s sleep. After their short break, they can start on their homework or other activities.
Reduce Screen Time Before Bed
Every parent knows that getting kids to bed can be a struggle. Once they’re finally asleep, you might breathe a sigh of relief and collapse into your own bed. But if you want your kids to get a good night’s sleep, there’s one more thing you need to do: reduce their screen time before bed. That means no more TV, no more video games, and no more scrolling through social media. Studies have shown that the blue light emitted by screens can disrupt the body’s natural sleep cycle, making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. So if you want your kids to get the rest they need, make sure to cut off their screen time at least 30 minutes before bedtime. They (and you) will be glad you did.
Set a Regular Bedtime
Another method is to set a regular bedtime and stick to it. On weekends and holidays, try to keep the bedtime within an hour of the weeknight bedtime. This will help train your child’s body to expect sleep at a specific time and make it easier for them to fall asleep when they need to.
Encourage Excercise During the Day
Exercise helps promote better sleep by providing a natural source of energy during the day and helping to regulate the body’s internal clock. Furthermore, exercise can help to relieve stress and anxiety, which can often interfere with sleep. Just avoid strenuous exercise close to bedtime, as this can actually have the opposite effect. By encouraging kids to exercise during the day, you can help them get the rest they need to stay healthy and happy.
Create a Quiet and Comfortable Sleeping Space
A comfortable and quiet room is essential for a good night’s sleep. If your child’s bedroom is too hot, too cold, or too brightly lit, it can be challenging to fall asleep and stay asleep. To make a bedroom comfortable, keep the room at a good temperature and darken the curtains or blinds to block out any unwanted light.
As a parent, you want your child to be rested, alert, and have the energy they need to learn and grow. If you have a hard time, try the methods mentioned above and see which ones work best for you and your family. With a little effort, you can help your kids get the rest they need to be their best selves.
