3 Tips for Managing your Child’s Sleep during the Fireworks
The 4th of July is right around the corner, and for many of us, that means that fireworks have already been going off in the neighborhood. This can be a big stressor for families with young children and especially for those with “light sleepers.” So, without any fluff, here are 3 simple strategies to help your child sleep soundly during the fireworks season.
Layering in White Noise
I do NOT suggest turning up the sound machine to max volume and placing it closer to baby’s sleep space.
We want to keep sound at a safe volume for baby (50 decibels) and at an appropriate distance (around 7 feet away from the crib/bed).
Instead of turning up the volume on the sound machine, you might try layering in different white noise options. You could choose to have a sound machine running closer to the window while you run a fan on low or even have 2 sound machines on opposite sides of the room.
Here are my 2 favorite sound machines:
2. Using a Black Out Solution
For many children, having a very dark sleep space is incredibly helpful for maintaining healthy sleep patterns. Using black out curtains or a Slumberpod can help block out external light and even a bit of sound.
3. Responding to Night Wakes
If your child wakes during the night due to fireworks:
Wait for a moment It is entirely possible that they will quickly settle themselves back to sleep without intervention! Allow them that opportunity, but if they continue to struggle, move on to step 2:
Go to them Your response will look different depending on your child’s age:
BABY: Walk in calmly, so you don’t alarm them further. You can offer comforts and verbal reassurance as your child accepts them. Offer your key phrase and lay them back down (if you picked them up). They may need additional pats, back rubs or just your physical presence to help them settle. Do what makes you feel comfortable!
TODDLER: Walk in calmly, so you don’t alarm them further. You can offer comforts and verbal reassurance as your child accepts them. You can turn on a dim light and talk with them about what is happening. Remind them that they are safe and explain that there are some fireworks going off in the neighborhood. They may be perfectly content with the conversation and go back to sleep on their own, but it is likely that they will need some extra comforts from you. Whether they need a back rub to help them settle, or are overstimulated by physical touch and just need your presence in a chair in the room, offer whatever is going to help your child fall asleep while feeling loved and safe.
Whether you are celebrating with a bang this 4th of July or enjoying a mellow evening in, I hope these tips help you and your family enjoy more restful nights during this season!
Sweet Dreams,
♡Rhaine
*This page contains some affiliate links
