We have all felt it – the dread of having to prepare to go back to school or work after a vacation or a long break.  Typically, one of the hardest things to adjust to is sleep! During time off from school or away from home, your child may have skipped or shortened naps, experienced more trouble falling asleep, experienced frequent night waking’s, or developed a morning wake up time that is either too early or too late. Rules and routines around bed time are sometimes a bit more relaxed on vacation, and sleeping accommodations may be completely opposite from what your child is used to at home. All these factors can make coming home and getting back on your normal sleep schedule quite challenging.  

Here are a few reminders, while supporting children, with the goal of getting back to a sleep routine that works for the whole family:

• Sleep deprivation, even if it’s only an hour here or there, can affect young children’s sleep cycles and keep them up at night.  Getting back to a regular bed time routine as soon as you are home will help; just remember this may not be immediate.
• Children can be very sensitive to changes in their environment, and coming home after a stimulating trip can leave them feeling out of sorts. Talk about the trip and how sleeping was different while on vacation. Remind your child of the comforts of home and the comforts of their sleep routine, talking about what comes next, and what you will do in the morning.  Bringing back the security of consistency and routines is very comforting for children.
• Remember that any sleep regression your child is experiencing is temporary, usually lasting about 2-3 weeks. Your child may be a bit more snuggly, needy, or sleep resistant during this time, so although you may be frustrated with sleep struggles, try to be sensitive to your child’s emotional needs and remain emotionally available to help them adjust back into a routine.

Parenting Tip: To get your busy child in the mood to snooze, start winding things down an hour or so before bedtime.  Remember to look for their cues for sleep and incorporate consistent sleep routines as soon as possible.