When kiddos are sick, their sleep patterns can be disrupted. Whether it’s a mild cold or a more serious illness, here are some simple strategies you can put into place to help them rest well and recover quickly.
Let’s start with something super simple. Keeping your little one’s environment clean can help minimize the spread of germs. Wash your hands regularly and clean surfaces like cribs, toys, and doorknobs. Use baby-safe disinfectants to keep things fresh and clean.
Next, consider using an air purifier in your kiddo’s room to help remove allergens, dust, and germs from the air. This can improve air quality and promote easier breathing during sleep, especially when they have congestion or a cough.
And perhaps the most obvious, and very important: keeping your child away from others who are ill can prevent unnecessary exposure and reduce the chance of sickness.
Use a cool-mist humidifier to add moisture to the air, which can ease congestion. You can also try saline drops and a snot sucker to clear nasal passages before sleep. Remember to provide plenty of fluids throughout the day to keep your kiddo hydrated.
Keep the atmosphere calm and low-stimulation. Short carrier walks (if appropriate) can provide comfort for sick babies without over-exciting them. Avoid intense activity and offer extra cuddle time to help soothe your little one.
If your child needs medication, like infant pain relievers or decongestants, consult with your child’s physician and try to administer them about 30 minutes before bedtime and naptime as appropriate to help with sleep.
Even though your kiddo may be sick, keeping a familiar bedtime routine can signal that it’s time for sleep. A warm bath, gentle massage, or storytime can provide the comfort they need before settling down.
You might find that moving bedtime a little earlier helps your little one get more rest. Illness can be exhausting, so a few extra hours of sleep can make all the difference in their recovery.
While all of the above should be helpful, it may not all solve your sleep problems. If you ever need me or my team, please do reach out – that is why we’re here. You don’t have to tackle this alone – we can help guide you every step of the way.
Have a baby around 4 months old that is suddenly not sleeping as well as they used to? It could be the 4-month sleep regression, which often hits parents hard.
Got a sleep situation that can’t be solved by the Baby Sleep Basics? Maybe it’s time to consider signing up for one of my Certified Sleep Consultant packages.
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