How to get kids to sleep
Unfortunately because every child is different, there's no one trick to getting kids of all ages straight to sleep, even though we all wish there was! In saying that, there are several basic ways to make it more straightforward to ease into bedtime, including limiting electronics, establishing a set bedtime and creating a regular nightly routine. You can read my top five tips for creating an effective bedtime routine here. For younger children and babies it can be much harder, but there are a number of natural remedies which some parents swear by, such as natural Lavender-scented body lotion, calming teas and Magnesium wipes.
Baby sleep tricks
Sven's Island Bubba Calm Super-Sensitive Baby Cream
Formulated especially to treat delicate and irritated skin, the Sven's Island Bubba Calm Super-Sensitive Baby Cream may help to soothe and calm conditions such as nappy rash, cradle cap, as well as mild forms of eczema and dermatitis by easing that irritability associated with discomfort. Gentle yet nourishing Jojoba, Avocado and Sunflower Oils as well as Vitamin E and Aloe Vera deeply hydrate the skin, while naturally anti-inflammatory Kohuhu Leaf, Chamomile and Oats may help to relieve soreness and protect against further irritation. Fragrance free and non-greasy, this calming cream can be applied to rashes and irritated areas two to three times daily, or used to moisturise skin after a bath.
Ethique Love Baby Bar Baby Massage Bar
The Ethique Love Baby Bar Baby Massage Bar is a great way to get your little one into a sleepy state of relaxation while also nourishing and protecting their skin. A simple blend of Cocoa Butter, Coconut Oil and Lavender, this solid bar can be gently massaged into skin and can be used on babies of any age. Vegan, Gluten Free and biodegradable, it may also be great for use on pregnant bellies to help treat stretch marks.
Amazing Oils Baby Magnesium Sleepy Toes Towelettes
Designed to help promote relaxation and relieve anxiety, the Amazing Oils Baby Magnesium Sleepy Toes Towelettes are soft towelettes infused with Magnesium from Western Australia, traditionally used to provide soothing relief from muscle cramps and restlessness. Suitable for young children and babies from three months old, these gentle wipes can be applied to the soles of the feet to allow the Magnesium to absorb through the skin and relax the body and mind for a restful sleep. Begin by using one wipe per day and gradually increase to two or three.
How to get your toddler/child to sleep
Jack N' Jill Natural Bathtime Shampoo & Body Wash Serenity
A soothing, aromatherapeutic blend of natural oils and extracts, the Jack N' Jill Natural Bathtime Shampoo & Body Wash Serenity contains native White Cypress Extract and Lavender, Clary Sage and Chamomile Oils which may help calm kids down before bed! Nourishing and foamy, this 2-in-1 also contains replenishing Quinoa Seed Extract to help promote strong hair and healthy skin, leaving it soft and smooth, as well as Soap Bark for its naturally foaming properties. Plant-based and hypoallergenic, this multitasking wash can be massaged over the entire body and scalp in the bath or shower to remove dirt and grime, then rinsed off.
Badger Night Night Balm
With a gentle combination of calming essential oils including Chamomile, Lavender, Sandalwood, Spearmint and Mandarin, the Badger Night Night Balm has a base of nourishing Olive Oil, Beeswax, Castor Oil and Aloe Vera for easy application. Harnessing the aromatherapeutic benefits of essential oils, this natural sleep aid may help to calm the mind and relax the body after a busy, playful day, helping to encourage a deep sleep and regular bedtime routine. Ideal for children and babies over six months, this creamy balm can be applied to pulse points such as wrists, chest and temples before bed.
Pineapple Heads Sleepyhead
An all-natural formula enriched with calming Chamomile and Lotus Flower, the Pineapple Heads Sleepyhead bubble bath creates rich and creamy bubbles with a fresh and calming aroma. A great addition to the nightly bath to begin a calming bedtime routine, a small amount of this foamy bubble bath can be added to running water to release the scent. Vegan and made in New Zealand, it's gentle and soothing on the delicate young skin of children.
Sleep tips for teenagers
WelleCo - Sleep Welle
This WelleCo - Sleep Welle is a Gluten Free and Vegan herbal tea designed to naturally calm the mind and body with traditionally soothing herbal, mineral and vitamin ingredients. Intended to be consumed at nighttime to help promote a good night's sleep, this delicious fruity drink contains Lemon Balm, Skullcap, Hops, Valerian and Passionflower to calm the busy mind. Perfect for anxious teenagers who have trouble getting to sleep. Simply brew 1 or 2 teabags for 5-10 minutes and add a sweetener like honey or maple syrup if required.
Badger Sleep Balm
For stressed teenagers, opt for the Badger Sleep Balm, which contains a more potent blend than the Night Night Balm and includes Balsam Fir and Bergamot to balance mood swings and promote a clear mind. Herbal Rosemary and Ginger may encourage easy breathing for a good night's sleep before an exam or stressful day. This mild balm is Certified Organic and Gluten Free and can be applied to the nose, lips, temples and other pulse points before bed.
