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The Ikea Crib and the Airport Bassinet: A Global Tour of Baby Sleep Solutions

4/28/2025

 
Explore baby sleep solutions with the Ikea crib and the airport bassinet. Learn when, where, and how to use each one!
a baby sleeping with a teddy bear on a white blanket
Parents worldwide face a common challenge—finding safe, reliable baby sleep solutions. Whether you’re settling in at home or flying across continents, your baby’s rest matters. Two popular tools help meet this need: the Ikea crib and the airport bassinet. Each serves a unique purpose, tailored for either home use or travel. Here, we’ll explore both options in detail, offering step-by-step guides, practical tips, and key safety insights.

What Are Baby Sleep Solutions and Why Do They Matter

Babies need consistent, safe sleep to grow well, and parents need reliable tools to support that. Baby sleep solutions are setups and methods that help babies sleep better, whether at home or during travel. These include items like cribs, bassinets, travel beds, and sleep aids. Sleep environments play a big role in a baby’s rest, and poor setups can cause discomfort or even safety issues.
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As parents begin sleep training, having the right equipment makes the process smoother and less stressful. Of course, choosing the right sleep option depends on your lifestyle, travel habits, and home space.
a baby sleeping and yawning
Explore different baby sleep solutions to find the right fit for your baby
Traveling with a Baby: What to Pack for Sleep

​Sleep doesn't stop just because you're on the move. However, babies need familiar cues and cozy setups to rest well, even away from home. When traveling with kids, pack sleep essentials to keep routines steady and stress levels low. Bring a lightweight sleep sack, a soft blanket, and a portable white noise machine to mimic home sounds.
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If your baby uses a pacifier or comfort toy, pack spares. A foldable travel crib or compact bassinet can be a lifesaver in hotels or relatives’ homes. Stick to familiar bedtime rituals whenever possible. A calm, prepared approach helps your baby sleep—and lets you rest a little easier, too.

Moving Abroad with a Baby? Here’s What Sleep Setups You’ll Need

Moving to a new country with a baby brings many questions, and sleep should be high on the list. Babies thrive on routine, so having a familiar sleep setup helps ease the transition. While packing up your child’s room for an international move, the first thing to decide is whether to ship your crib or buy a new one abroad.

The Ikea crib is a smart choice for long-term stays—affordable, easy to assemble, and available in many countries. During the journey, the airport bassinet offers a safe sleep space on long flights. With the right sleep tools, your baby can rest well, no matter what time zone you’re calling home.
a cozy crib with pillows and blankets – one of the baby sleep solutions
Ikea cribs come in different models and can be purchased anywhere in the world for a reasonable price
The Ikea Crib: Home Comfort, Swedish Simplicity

​The Ikea crib is a popular choice for parents who want a simple, safe, and affordable sleep space at home. Known for its clean design and compact size, it fits well in small rooms and grows with your baby. Many models are convertible, turning into toddler beds later on. Ikea cribs also meet strict safety standards, giving parents peace of mind. Lightweight and easy to assemble, they’re perfect for new families setting up a nursery.
Here’s what makes the Ikea crib stand out:
  • Compact and ideal for apartments or shared rooms
  • Budget-friendly without compromising on safety
  • Converts to toddler beds (on some models)
  • Easy to transport or reassemble after moving
  • Available in stores worldwide and online.

Step-by-Step: Setting Up the Ikea Crib Safely

Setting up the Ikea crib safely is simple if you follow the correct steps. Always read the manual first and keep small parts away from children. The process doesn’t take long, but careful setup ensures your baby sleeps securely.

Here’s how to do it:
  1. Unbox all parts and check that nothing is missing or damaged.
  2. Lay out tools—you’ll usually need a screwdriver or the tool Ikea provides.
  3. Assemble the frame by following the instructions step-by-step.
  4. Secure all screws tightly to prevent wobbling or gaps.
  5. Place the mattress snugly inside—there should be no gaps on the sides.
  6. Add fitted sheets only—avoid pillows or loose bedding.
  7. Position the crib away from windows, cords, or heaters.

The Airport Bassinet: Sleep at 30,000 Feet

The airport bassinet is a helpful sleep solution for long-haul flights with infants. It attaches to the wall in front of bulkhead seats and provides a small, secure space for babies to rest during the flight. Most airlines offer it for infants under 6 to 8 months or below a certain weight limit. It must be requested in advance, as availability is limited. When used correctly, it can make flying much easier for both babies and parents. Key things to know about airport bassinets:
  • Only available on certain long-distance flights by some airlines
  • Must be reserved early, often by calling the airline
  • Fits babies up to a set weight or age
  • Allows hands-free rest for parents during flight
  • Always follow airline safety guidelines when in use.
a baby with lots of toys
Bringing comfort objects can help your baby sleep better during the flight, but also after the move
Step-by-Step: Using the Airport Bassinet Effectively

Using the airport bassinet correctly can make long flights more comfortable for your baby and less tiring for you. It’s important to plan ahead and know what to expect.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to get the most out of it:
  1. Book early and request a bassinet directly with the airline.
  2. Confirm weight and age limits—these vary between airlines.
  3. Arrive early at the airport to secure the assigned bassinet seat.
  4. Ask the crew when and how to install it after takeoff.
  5. Place your baby inside once the cruising altitude is reached.
  6. Bring a comfort object—a small blanket or soft toy helps your baby sleep better.
  7. Follow safety rules—never leave your baby unattended.

What Parents Must Know Before Using Either Option

Before using the Ikea crib or airport bassinet, parents should understand the details of key safety and usage. Always check for recalls or updates on crib models to ensure they meet current standards. With the airport bassinet, review airline policies ahead of time—requirements can vary widely.

Also, be aware of regional sleep safety guidelines, especially when traveling internationally. Understanding how each product works and what’s allowed helps avoid last-minute surprises. Baby sleep solutions only work well when used correctly, so preparation and research are essential for safe, restful sleep.

Rest Easy: The Right Sleep Setup Makes All the Difference

Choosing between the Ikea crib and the airport bassinet depends on where and how your baby sleeps. With the right baby sleep solutions, parents can handle both daily routines and travel with confidence. Simple tools used the right way create safer, calmer sleep, at home or thousands of miles away.

Photos via:
​Pexels
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Helping Kids Cope with Nighttime Fears After a Move to a New Neighborhood

1/29/2025

 
Is your child afraid to sleep in their new home? Follow these actionable tips for helping kids cope with nighttime fears.
A little girl tucked under a blanket, illustrating the importance of helping kids cope with nighttime fears.
Does your child suddenly fear bedtime after moving to a new neighborhood? You're not alone. A new home can feel exciting during the day but turn unsettling at night. The unfamiliar sounds, shadows, and spaces can all make falling asleep difficult. Thankfully, with a few simple strategies, helping kids cope with nighttime fears is possible—one night at a time.

Why Moving Triggers Nighttime Fears

A move brings big changes, and for kids, those changes can feel overwhelming—especially at night. The once-familiar comfort of their old home is gone, replaced by new surroundings that don’t yet feel safe. This adjustment can be even more challenging when relocating with children across long distances. A completely new environment, different time zones, and an unfamiliar community can intensify feelings of uncertainty, making it harder for your child to feel at ease in their new home.

That said, here’s why your child might be struggling with nighttime fears after the move:
  • Unfamiliar environment: New rooms, different furniture arrangements, and strange noises can make their new bedroom feel unsettling.
  • Loss of routine: Moving often disrupts bedtime habits, making it harder for kids to feel settled.
  • Emotional stress: Leaving behind friends, family, or even a favorite park can create feelings of sadness and uncertainty.
  • Increased sensitivity: Kids are naturally more aware of small changes, like the way light filters through new curtains or the sound of distant traffic.

Signs Your Child Is Struggling with Nighttime Fears

Adjusting to a new home takes time. However, if your child is experiencing persistent nighttime fears, they may show clear signs that they're struggling.

Here’s what to watch for:
  • Frequent waking up at night – If your child wakes up multiple times or has trouble falling back asleep, they may feel anxious about their new surroundings.
  • Bedtime resistance – Prolonged stalling, requests to stay up later, or wanting to sleep in your room can indicate feelings of insecurity.
  • Clinginess and seeking reassurance – If your child suddenly needs more comfort or wants you nearby more often, they might be feeling unsettled.
  • Nightmares or night terrors – Stress from the move can trigger bad dreams or intense fears that disrupt their sleep.
  • Physical symptoms – Complaints of tummy aches, headaches, or feeling “too scared to sleep” can be linked to nighttime anxiety.

If you've noticed any of these signs, don’t worry—there are ways to help your child feel more comfortable and confident at bedtime.

Helping Kids Cope With Nighttime Fears After a Move

Helping kids cope with nighttime fears after moving to a new neighborhood takes patience and a thoughtful approach. The key is to create a comforting environment that feels familiar while gradually building their confidence.

That said, here are some practical ways to help make this transition smoother.

1. Create a Familiar Sleep Environment
One of the most effective ways to ease your child’s nighttime fears is by making their new bedroom feel familiar. You can do so by bringing comforting items from their old room—such as their favorite stuffed animal, blanket, or pillow—into their new one.

Arranging their furniture similarly to how it was in their previous room can also help them feel more at home. Additionally, using a soft nightlight or a white noise machine can minimize fear of the dark and block out unfamiliar sounds that might make them anxious.

2. Establish a Consistent Bedtime Routine
A predictable bedtime routine can provide much-needed stability during the adjustment period. The routine can include activities like reading a bedtime story, taking a warm bath, or listening to soft music. Moreover, it’s important to limit screen time before bed, as the blue light from devices can interfere with their ability to fall asleep and increase feelings of restlessness.

3. Encourage Open Conversations
Talking about fears can make a big difference in how your child copes with their new surroundings. Therefore, encourage them to share their feelings and let them know it’s okay to be scared. Instead of dismissing their fears, validate their emotions and provide reassurance that everything will be fine.

Additionally, explaining unfamiliar nighttime noises—like creaky floors or the hum of distant traffic—can help demystify their new environment and reduce fear.

4. Introduce Positive Associations with Their New Room
Helping your child build positive connections with their new room can make it feel more welcoming. One way to do this is by involving them in decorating their space, allowing them to choose bedding, wall art, or other decorations that reflect their personality.

Also, spending quality time in their room during the day, whether through reading, playing, or relaxing, can make the space feel more familiar and safe when it’s time for bed.

5. Teach Self-Soothing Techniques
Giving your child tools to manage their fears independently can boost their confidence at night. Simple techniques such as deep breathing exercises can help them calm down when they feel anxious.

Another effective method is teaching them to repeat a comforting phrase, such as “I am safe in my new home.” Similarly, hugging a favorite stuffed animal or squeezing a stress ball can provide physical comfort and reassurance.

When to Seek Professional Help

While most kids adjust to their new home with time and support, some may continue to struggle with nighttime fears despite your best efforts. If their anxiety persists and starts affecting their daily life, it may be time to seek professional help.

You should consider reaching out to a pediatrician or child therapist if your child:
Has trouble sleeping for an extended period – If your child consistently struggles to fall asleep or wakes up multiple times throughout the night for weeks, professional guidance can help address underlying anxiety.
  • Shows extreme fear or distress at bedtime – If their fears become overwhelming and interfere with their ability to function during the day, it’s a sign that extra support may be needed.
  • Experiences behavior changes – Increased irritability, mood swings, or withdrawal from activities they once enjoyed could indicate deeper emotional struggles.
  • Develop physical symptoms tied to anxiety – Persistent headaches, stomachaches, or other complaints with no medical explanation might be their way of expressing stress.
  • Has persistent nightmares or night terrors – Occasional bad dreams are normal, but recurring intense nightmares may require professional intervention to help your child feel safe.
Seeking help from a professional can provide valuable coping strategies tailored to your child’s specific needs. With the right support, they can learn to manage their fears and regain a sense of comfort in their new home.

Final Thoughts

Helping your child adjust to a new home takes time, patience, and consistency. Nighttime fears are a natural response to change, but with the right approach, you can create an environment where they feel safe and secure.

Remember, small changes—like maintaining familiar bedtime routines, offering reassurance, and encouraging open conversations—can have a big impact. As your child gradually becomes more comfortable, their confidence will grow, and bedtime will become less of a struggle.
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If helping kids cope with nighttime fears takes time, don’t be discouraged. Each child adjusts at their own pace, and showing empathy and support will help them feel understood. However, if their fears persist and start affecting their well-being, seeking professional help can provide additional guidance to ensure they feel fully at ease in their new home. 

Photo via Pexels

How Seasonal Changes Affect Children’s Sleep and Ways to Adapt

12/11/2024

 
Learn how seasonal changes affect children’s sleep and discover effective ways to adapt routines and environments for better rest year-round.
a mother putting her daughter to sleep.
Seasonal changes can profoundly impact children’s sleep patterns, making it crucial for parents to understand how shifting daylight hours, temperature variations, and changes in daily routines affect their little ones. Sleep is a cornerstone of childhood development, influencing mood, cognitive function, and physical health. Understanding how seasonal changes affect children’s sleep allows parents to create strategies to maintain consistency, ensuring that children get the rest they need to thrive.

The Role of Daylight in Sleep Disruptions

Sleep disruptions during seasonal changes often occur due to fluctuating daylight. Longer daylight hours in summer can make it harder for children to fall asleep, while shorter days in winter may lead to waking up earlier or feeling lethargic. Adjusting to these shifts takes time, but parents can create a bedtime routine that accommodates seasonal variations. For instance, darkening the bedroom with blackout curtains in the summer helps mimic nighttime conditions, signaling to a child’s brain that it’s time to sleep.

How Temperature Changes Impact Sleep Quality

Temperature shifts also play a role in how seasonal changes affect children’s sleep. During colder months, children may have difficulty falling asleep if their room is too chilly, while hot and humid summers can disrupt sleep quality by making it uncomfortable to rest. Parents can adapt by adjusting room temperatures with heaters, fans, or air conditioning. Providing breathable bedding for warmer months and cozier blankets for winter can also make a big difference. Parents can mitigate the effects of extreme temperatures by ensuring optimal sleeping conditions.

Routine Shifts and Their Effect on Sleep Patterns

Routine shifts brought on by seasonal activities, such as holiday travel or extended daylight hours, can interfere with a child’s internal clock. To minimize disruptions, parents should maintain a consistent bedtime and wake-up time, regardless of the season. Predictability is key for children, as their bodies adapt better when routines are regular. Sticking to a set schedule can prevent sleep disturbances from becoming long-term issues, even during exciting holiday breaks.

Melatonin and Seasonal Variations

Seasonal changes can also influence melatonin production, a hormone essential for sleep regulation. Exposure to natural sunlight in the morning is especially beneficial during darker months, as it helps reset the body’s internal clock and promotes alertness during the day. In contrast, limiting screen time in the evening becomes particularly important during summer, as artificial light can suppress melatonin and delay sleep onset. Encouraging outdoor activities during the day allows children to expend energy and soak up natural light, further aiding their sleep cycle. Creating a tech-free zone at night and calming pre-bedtime rituals can support healthy melatonin levels and significantly improve overall sleep quality.

The Importance of a Restful Sleep Environment

Addressing sleep is a good opportunity to think about the sleep environment. Try to change up your child’s room. This can have a surprising effect on how well they rest. For instance, incorporating calming colors, adjusting lighting, and adding comfortable furnishings can transform their bedroom into a haven of relaxation. Interior design ideas for your kids' bedrooms, like themed decor featuring their favorite characters, cozy and soft bedding, or personalized touches like name plaques or art, can make children feel more secure and at ease, ultimately promoting better and more restful sleep.

Nutrition and Hydration’s Role in Sleep

Nutrition and hydration are often overlooked yet play a critical role in how seasonal changes affect children’s sleep. Warm milk or calming herbal teas in the winter can provide a sense of comfort and relaxation, helping children unwind before bedtime. During hot summer days, staying hydrated becomes essential to prevent discomfort or restlessness caused by dehydration, which can easily disrupt sleep. A balanced nutrition and hydration approach supports their sleep and overall well-being.

Physical Activity and Energy Levels Across Seasons

Physical activity levels may vary with the seasons, and this can influence sleep patterns. During warmer months, children tend to be more active, which can aid in falling asleep faster. However, less outdoor play might lead to excess energy at bedtime in colder seasons. Parents can encourage indoor activities like yoga or light stretching to help children expend energy and wind down for the night.

Emotional Changes and Sleep Disturbances

Emotional well-being is another factor to consider. Seasonal changes can bring about feelings of excitement or stress, which may interfere with a child’s ability to fall asleep. Parents should be attentive to their children’s emotional state and provide a calming bedtime routine, such as reading a story or practicing mindfulness exercises. Parents can help children feel secure and ready for sleep by addressing emotional needs.

Daylight Saving Time and Its Unique Challenges

Daylight-saving time transitions are a unique challenge when examining how seasonal changes affect children’s sleep. The abrupt shift in time can throw off internal rhythms, leading to difficulties in both falling asleep and waking up. Gradually adjusting bedtime by 15 minutes in the days leading up to the change can ease this transition. Creating a gradual shift in routine helps the body adapt naturally, reducing the likelihood of sleep disruption.

Adapting Strategies for Long-Term Success

Finally, parents should remain flexible and patient as they navigate these seasonal shifts. Every child reacts differently to changes, and finding the right strategies may require trial and error. By focusing on consistent routines, optimizing the sleep environment, and being attentive to their child’s needs, parents can create a supportive atmosphere for healthy sleep year-round. These efforts improve sleep quality and foster a sense of stability and comfort, helping children feel secure and well-rested as they adapt to seasonal changes.

Helping Children Thrive Through Seasonal Sleep Changes

Understanding how seasonal changes affect children’s sleep equips parents with the tools to provide stability during transitions. Parents can help children adapt to seasonal shifts by adjusting routines. Optimizing the sleep environment also makes a big difference. Being mindful of emotional and physical needs is equally important. These small changes improve sleep and boost overall well-being. Children wake up rested and ready to face each day.

Photo via Pexels

Involving Your Child in Setting Up Their New Sleep Space

7/31/2024

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Discover the benefits of involving your child in setting up their new sleep space. Foster creativity, reduce stress and build bonds.
A little girl inside a cardboard box
Moving to a new home in Washington, DC, can be a challenging experience for children. The new environment, different routines, and unfamiliar surroundings can create a sense of anxiety. One effective way to make this transition smoother for your children is to involve them in the process. For instance, a key aspect of settling into a new home is creating a comfortable space to help your child sleep. This space is a private sanctuary where your child can relax and feel secure. Therefore, involving your child in setting up their new sleep space is a good idea. Let’s explore the benefits in more detail.

Move into Your New Home First

Before you arrive at your new home in Washington, DC, you should involve your child in the relocation process by allowing them to pack a bag of essentials, including their favorite books and toys. Likewise, you can ask them to personalize moving boxes with special drawings for easy identification. Not only will this keep them occupied, but they will also be less stressed out and more focused on the task at hand.

To reduce the moving stress for your child even more, a quick and efficient relocation is necessary, which is why you’ll want to hire some of the top movers in DC. Skilled professionals will help you declutter and pack up quickly, and your kid can also help out — moderately and safely.

Involving Your Child in Setting Up Their New Sleep Space Builds a Sense of Ownership

Building a sense of ownership in your child during a move is incredibly beneficial. Children feel proud of their contribution when they are involved in setting up their new sleep space. This involvement significantly boosts their confidence as they see their ideas and choices come to life. Encouraging your child to make decisions about their new bedroom, such as selecting the color scheme, choosing decorations, or arranging furniture, empowers them and makes them feel valued. Take them shopping in Washington, DC, for new room decorations or bedding.

Enhances Creativity and Personal Expression

Enhancing creativity and personal expression in children is another vital part of setting up their new bedroom. Children get the opportunity to express their personalities through their choices. This process also helps develop important decision-making skills. As children select their bedding, wall art, and other room elements, they learn to make choices and understand the consequences of those choices, teaching them about personal responsibility. Involving your child in these decisions nurtures a positive attitude towards their new home and encourages them to take pride in their space.
Two girls making decorations for their rooms
Your kids are born creative – let them embrace it!
Strengthening Parent-Child Bond

Working on a project like this inspires open communication and cooperation between you and your child, which helps build trust and understanding, making your relationship stronger. Also, creating a new sleep space together will result in lasting memories that both you and your child will cherish. Each step of the process is a chance to bond and connect, providing a shared experience that can be particularly comforting during the stressful time of moving to a new city. By involving your child in setting up their new sleep space, you reinforce your connection with them.
Two kids playing with their toys
Involving your child in setting up their new sleep space will bring them confidence and a feeling of belonging that will reduce their stress levels.
Teaching Organizational Skills

Teaching organizational skills through setting up a new bedroom can benefit children. It actively teaches them about space management and the importance of keeping their room tidy and functional. This hands-on experience is not just about making their room look nice; it instills essential skills they can use throughout their lives.

When children learn to keep their rooms orderly, they are more likely to apply these habits to other areas of their lives. This sense of order helps them manage their responsibilities more effectively, reducing stress and improving overall productivity. Organizing their space also teaches children how to prioritize and manage their possessions.

Encouraging Better Sleep Patterns

​A child who participates in organizing and decorating their room may feel more relaxed in their personalized environment. This sense of relaxation is crucial for good sleep. Children are likelier to feel comfortable and safe in a space they helped create. After all, creating a positive association with bedtime starts with the child feeling connected to their sleep area. When they choose their bedding or arrange their favorite items around them, it turns bedtime into a more welcoming experience. This personal connection can make it easier for them to settle down at night and look forward to spending time in their room. Establishing a healthy sleep routine is essential for their overall health and well-being. It impacts everything from their mood to their ability to concentrate during the day.
Father reading to his daughter while lying in bed
Letting your children create a familiar and personal space will help them relax and sleep better
Final Thoughts

In conclusion, involving your child in setting up their new sleep space offers numerous benefits that can significantly ease the transition of moving. This involvement enhances their comfort and security and fosters essential skills like creativity, organization, and responsibility. Therefore, we encourage parents to involve their children in the process to turn a potentially challenging experience into an opportunity for growth and positive memories.

Photos used: 
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Understanding and Nurturing Your Child's FOMO

7/30/2024

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For toddlers, every day is an adventure filled with new discoveries and endless possibilities. The world around them is growing, and their ability to interact with it is changing rapidly. While their newfound self-confidence and sense of independence are exhilarating, they can also be overwhelming. Curiosity is a cornerstone of the toddler years; however, amidst this journey of exploration comes many big emotions and experiences that are hard for their little brains to process.

Imagine this… it’s bedtime. You put your sweet toddler into their crib and your little one immediately screams “No!” and demands you to stay in the room. Sound familiar? 

Anyone who’s ever experienced the ever-exciting yet ever-exhausting world of toddler-dom will know exactly what we’re talking about when we say “Toddler FOMO.” For those of you just beginning the toddlerhood journey or who are in the thick of it, stay calm and read on as we break down the reasoning behind the common phenomenon: the fear of missing out (FOMO) in toddlers and how it affects their sleep.

What is Toddler FOMO?

Toddler FOMO is the fear or anxiety that toddlers experience when they perceive they might be missing out on something exciting or interesting happening around them. These emotions often manifest in “meltdowns” around simple tasks such as going to bed or taking a nap. While FOMO is most commonly associated with adults who fear missing out on social events or experiences, it is equally relevant in the world of toddlers, albeit in a different form.

As parents, it’s sometimes hard for us to comprehend the seemingly irrational reactions of our toddlers. But, once you understand the roots behind Toddler FOMO, their reactions become a little more relatable.
  1. Curiosity and Exploration: Toddlers are naturally curious beings who crave new experiences and sensations. Their FOMO may stem from a desire to explore everything they see or hear, regardless of the outcome.
  2. Social Interaction: As toddlers develop social awareness, they become more attuned to the activities and interactions of those around them. Missing out on playtime with friends or family members can trigger their FOMO.
  3. Comfort and Security: Separation anxiety is common among toddlers, especially when they feel separated from their primary caregivers. FOMO may arise as a response to the fear of losing that sense of security.

How FOMO Affects a Toddler’s Sleep

FOMO can significantly impact a toddler’s sleep patterns, making it difficult for them to settle down at bedtime or refusing naps. Here are some ways in which FOMO affects a toddler’s sleep:
  1. Resistance at Bedtime: Toddlers experiencing FOMO typically resist going to bed because they don’t want to miss out on any activities or interactions happening around them. Toddlers are learning how their actions cause a reaction from you. 
  2. Difficulty Falling Asleep: Even if they go to bed, the fear of missing out can make it hard for toddlers to calm their minds and fall asleep.
  3. Nighttime Wakings: Toddlers may wake up more frequently during the night, anxious that they are missing out on something. Remember, it’s normal for kids to wake at night and as they are going through growth spurts and learning new skills, it can affect their sleep for a short time. 
  4. Shortened Naps or Outright Won’t Take a Nap: FOMO can cause toddlers to take shorter naps, as they are eager to get back to exploring and playing. Who needs a nap when there are way too many fun things to do? 

Embracing Toddler FOMO and Ensuring Quality Sleep

Toddler FOMO is a natural part of their developmental journey. And just as with any developmental milestone, our ability as parents to embrace and support our children as they grow is paramount to quickly tackling any negative side effects, such as skipping naps. Here are several ways parents and caregivers can support and nurture toddler curiosity while addressing their fears and ensuring quality sleep.
  1. Establish Routines:  Consistent daily routines can help alleviate FOMO by providing toddlers with a sense of predictability and security. Ensure meal times, naps, and bedtimes are at the same time every day. Post “getting ready” charts for toddlers to follow when preparing for sleep or in the morning. Plan play times within the same block of time to create a structured environment.
  2. Validate Emotions:  Acknowledge and validate your toddler's emotions when they experience FOMO. Offer reassurance and comfort while explaining that it's okay to miss out on certain things sometimes. Help them understand that everyone needs rest to enjoy activities fully.
  3. Model Healthy Behavior:  As role models, parents and caregivers can demonstrate healthy ways of coping with FOMO. Show your toddler how to manage disappointment, adapt to changes, and find joy in the present moment. Turn their FOMO into a learning experience by helping them understand the importance of sleep for their growing bodies and how taking a nap or going to bed will give them the energy they need to do even more fun things when they wake up.
  4. Encourage Social Interaction:  Foster opportunities for socialization with peers through playdates, group activities, or visits to playgrounds. Positive social interactions can reduce FOMO by allowing toddlers to engage with others and build relationships. It also gets the energy out!
  5. Create a Calming Bedtime Routine:  Develop a soothing bedtime routine that signals to your toddler that it’s time to wind down and get to sleep. This can include activities like reading a book, taking a warm bath, or singing lullabies. A calming routine can help ease the transition to sleep as well. 
  6. Try Introducing a Lovey:  A favorite blanket, stuffed animal, or another comfort object can provide a sense of security and help your toddler feel more at ease when going to bed. This can be especially helpful in reducing separation anxiety.
  7. Limit Stimulating Activities Before Bed: Avoid engaging in highly stimulating activities close to bedtime. While your child may WANT a dance party before bed, it’s up to you as a parent to determine if the activity will cause your child to relax or get hyped up. Encourage quieter, more relaxing activities in the hour leading up to sleep. This helps signal to your toddler that it’s time to wind down and prepare for rest.

While challenging, Toddler FOMO is completely natural and is a child’s way of processing and expressing their big emotions. By understanding the roots of FOMO and implementing nurturing strategies, parents and caregivers can help toddlers embrace the wonder of exploration while addressing their fears in a supportive manner. Ensuring quality sleep despite FOMO can empower toddlers to thrive and grow with confidence in their abilities to explore and discover the joys of life. By establishing routines, validating emotions, modeling healthy behavior, encouraging social interaction, creating a calming bedtime routine, providing comfort objects, and limiting stimulating activities, you can help your toddler overcome FOMO and achieve restful sleep.
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Interested in learning more about me or how I can help your child sleep all night?  ​

Sleep coaching and consulting for clients world-wide, and near you in Annapolis, Fairfax, Arlington, Baltimore, Washington DC, Maryland, Delaware, the Eastern Shore and Northern Virginia. 
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Professional Sleep Consultants
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