Traveling or spending time away from home with a baby requires a few extra precautions, especially when it comes to sleeping away from home . In this article, we will see how to organize your baby's sleep in a safe and comfortable way even when you are away from your usual environment. You will discover the best solutions and accessories to ensure a peaceful sleep while traveling or during a visit to the grandparents.
Preparing your baby for sleep away from home
Changing environments can affect a child’s sleep, especially if they’re used to a strict routine. Here are some tips to help prepare your little one for bedtime away from home :
- Bring familiar objects : Bring along his favorite stuffed animal, a blanket or a doudou that can give the child a feeling of familiarity and security even in a new environment.
- Maintain the same routine : Even when you are away from home, try to follow the bedtime routine you have established at home, such as bathing, reading a book or singing a song. This helps your child relax and understand that it is time to sleep.
- Don't change sleeping habits too much : If your baby is used to sleeping in his or her crib or bassinet, avoid making him or her change habits drastically, such as having him or her sleep in the same bed as you.
Accessories for sleeping away from home
When you’re on the go, having the right baby sleep accessories can make all the difference. Here are some of the best options to ensure a safe and comfortable sleep while traveling or staying away from home:
1. Travel cot
A travel crib is lightweight, foldable, and easy to carry. These models are perfect for those who travel frequently or visit family and friends. Make sure the crib meets safety standards and has a firm, flat mattress.
2. Camping cot
A travel cot is a versatile option for sleeping on the go. Many models are easy to assemble and disassemble and come with a comfortable mattress for your child. Some travel cots also have a built-in mosquito net, perfect for sleeping outdoors.
3. Sleeping bag
The sleeping bag is an excellent ally for sleeping away from home. It ensures that the child maintains a constant body temperature and reduces the risk of uncovering during the night. Choose a sleeping bag with TOG suitable for the season and the temperature of the environment in which the child will sleep.
4. Children's travel tent
Kids travel tents are lightweight and portable, ideal for camping or beach days. They provide a safe and secure sleeping environment, with breathable walls that allow for good air circulation.
Tips for Safe Sleeping Away from Home
Sleep safety is essential, whether you’re at home or away. Here are some guidelines to ensure your baby sleeps in a safe environment even when you’re away:
- Firm, flat surface : Make sure your baby sleeps on a firm, flat surface, as recommended by SIDS prevention guidelines. Avoid soft pillows or mattresses that are too soft.
- Hazard-free environment : Keep your child's sleep area free of pillows, stuffed animals, or soft blankets that could pose a suffocation hazard.
- Appropriate temperatures : Check the room temperature and use a seasonally appropriate sleeping bag to keep your baby comfortable. The ideal temperature should be between 18 and 20 degrees.
- Sleeping in the same room, not in the same bed : Even away from home, it is advisable for the child to sleep in the same room as the parents, but on a separate surface, such as a crib or travel cot.
Sleeping away from home in different situations
Sleeping away from home can vary depending on the circumstances. Here are some common situations and how to deal with them:
1. Bedtime with grandparents
When you leave your baby at the grandparents' house for a sleepover, make sure they have a safe environment for sleep. Bring a travel crib or a safe crib. Teach them basic sleep safety rules, such as avoiding blankets, pillows, and always placing the baby on his or her back to sleep.
2. Bedtime at the hotel
Many hotels offer cribs or cots for babies upon request. Check in advance if the hotel has these options and, if necessary, bring your own travel cot to ensure that your baby sleeps in a safe and comfortable environment.
3. Camping or outdoor holidays
If you are planning an outdoor vacation, bring a travel tent to ensure a safe and secure environment for your baby. Make sure the tent is well ventilated and your baby is protected from insects and bad weather.
How to Manage Night Awakenings Away from Home
Nighttime awakenings are normal for babies, but when you are away from home, they may be more frequent due to the change in environment. Here are some tips to manage them:
- Stay calm : Your baby may wake up because he doesn’t recognize his new surroundings. Try to comfort him without disrupting his bedtime routine too much.
- Offer comfort : If your baby wakes up, offer him a familiar object, such as a comforter or his favorite stuffed animal, to help him calm down and go back to sleep.
- Don't change habits too much : Try not to drastically change your child's nighttime routine to avoid creating new associations that can prolong awakenings.
Conclusion
Sleeping on the go can be a challenge, but with the right accessories and a little preparation, you can ensure your baby sleeps safely and soundly wherever you are. Remember to always maintain a safe sleep environment, follow a familiar routine, and use practical accessories like a sleeping bag or travel crib to make your little one's sleep comfortable even in new environments.
*The article's cover image was sources from Freepik.
