Tip 1: Don’t over-schedule

One of the biggest mistakes parents make is to try to pack in all the fun and adventure they might have had back in their “child-free” days.

The fact is, when you travel with a baby you can’t plan to go bungee-jumping in the morning, swim with dolphins in the early afternoon, go parasailing in the late afternoon, and go on a dinner cruise in the evening.

It’s better to slow down the pace and make sure you schedule regular naps and early bedtimes, just like you would at home.

Tip 2: Be consistent with naps and bedtime

An occasional nap in the car seat or a later-than-usual bedtime probably won't do too much harm. Still, if your baby's naps are all over the place and she goes to bed much later than usual several days in a row, your baby will become so overtired and cranky that a complete meltdown will be inevitable.

Tip 3: Be patient as your baby acclimatized to the new environment

Even if your baby is the best little sleeper in the world at home, when you're in a strange environment, things might be very different. It's normal for babies and toddlers to test boundaries around sleep when they're someone new.

Just because you have specific rules at home, they won't automatically understand that the same rules apply to Grandma's house.

In a strange place, your baby might cry for a while at bedtime or wake up at odd times during the night. The best way to handle this kind of behaviour is to react the same way you would at home.

Go into the room every five minutes or so. Offer a bit of reassurance, but other than that, don't bend your rules. If you hang on tight to your consistency, within the first night or two, your child will be used to the new environment and will be sleeping well again.

Tip 4. Make sure you bring your child’s sleeping toy and/or blanket

If your child has a treasured comfort item (their Lovey), it will go a long way to helping him feel safe and secure enough to fall asleep in a strange environment.
Forget it at your peril! 

It is also a great idea to bring their Sleep sack. Packing light with the thoughts that you will purchase a new Sleep sack when you arrive can make sense.

But I don't advise it!
​
Sleeping in his or her Sleep sack from home can be one of the things that can stay familiar for them in a new environment. After all, it feels like home, and perhaps, more importantly, it smells like home!

So bring the one from home, it can be a huge help with making baby feel comfortable in a new place. 

Tip 5. Remember to think about the environment where baby will be sleeping.

You have heard me say it before, many times, we ALL sleep better when it's dark in the room. Blackout dark! So it only makes sense to think about where you and your little ones will be sleeping and if they will have appropriate window coverings to make sure that it's going to be dark enough for sleep when the sun is still up at 10 PM or rises at 4 AM. 

It's best just to pack a few Large Black Garbage Bags and some painters tape in case you need to blackout some windows. Or invest in a permanent traveling blackout solution like SleepOut Portable Blackout Curtains (Discount code: tothemoonsleep10) or SlumberPod  patented blackout tent that fits perfectly over your pack n' play, travel crib or SlumberTot  Inflatable Toddler Bed (discount code: tothemoonsleep). 

Another thing that you need to consider is environmental noise. If you are going to be sharing a room and you want to be able to move about a little more freely.
I would bring your child's white noise machine. Your baby is used to having his or her white noise machine blocking out environmental noises in your home, and it works like a charm.

Plus, all of the other health benefits that come with using a white noise machine. It will allow you to move about and not wake her. It will make sure that the loud 1 AM crowd that sings down the hallway will not disturb your sleeping bundle! 

Bring the white noise machine or get one of the many travel white noise options !! 

Tip 6. If you’re not a co-sleeping family, don’t start now!
​
Another big mistake parents make is to start sharing a bed with their baby or toddler while travelling. Even if it's only for a few nights, if your baby decides this is her new preferred way to sleep, you could find yourself dealing with a big problem when you get home and try and put her back in her crib.

The good news is; most hotels have a crib you can use or rent.
You could also take your portable playpen along and use that as a crib.

You will also want to make sure that you can create some kind of barrier between you and your little one(s). Your kiddos sleep in their own room at home and part of the reason for this being so helpful is because when they wake-up (which we all do periodically throughout the night), they are not stimulated by seeing their favourite people in the world.

Seeing you leads to them wanting your attention, aka crying or calling out for you to come and get them. 

It's best if they can be in a separate room while travelling. Or maybe a large walk-in closet or ensuite. 

When in doubt, bring along a very dark bed sheet and several tacks.
Tack that bad boy to the roof between your bed and your littles playpen or crib. 
Seriously, I know it sounds a little crazy!

But it actually makes a HUGE difference! It makes them feel more secure being in a space with clear boundaries. It will make it easier for them to fall asleep and stay asleep. 

So there you have it!  Traveling with a little one unfortunately isn't about you. Just like everything else in life since you've had kids; it's all about them! Plus we all know that a tired child is a messy bundle of emotions that turns into tears and tantrums.  

You will have a much better time if you let them sleep.

Interested in even more travel sleep trips to make your family vacation a success while not compromising your child's sleep? Check out our Travel & Sleep Guide for all your sleep and travel needs. 

Happy sleeping will lead to happy travels!

Erin Neri

If yDaylight savings starts each spring season and this year is shows up on Sunday, March 9, 2024.

When it's time to “spring forward” the clocks it can be a dreaded time for parents of young children because with this, comes an adjustment that does not happen immediately. 

This is because children tend to be more structured in their bedtime and wake up around the same time each morning and that is why people usually
can see a greater effect on children when the time changes. 

However, there are some things you can do to help make the transition to the new
time go a little smoother. 

​My recommendation is to leave your clock alone Saturday night.  Wake up Sunday morning, have breakfast, then go around your house and change your clocks.  Psychologically, it will feel much better for everyone if you wait until Sunday morning to change the time. 

If you are waiting until the time change has arrived my best advice for children to help them with the change is to split the difference with the old time and the new time. 

                                                            How does that work?

School Age Children (6+YO) -
My best advice for children to help them with the change is to split the difference with the ​old time and the new time.  

If  you have a child that does not nap and normally goes to bed at 7:00 PM.
You would put him to bed at 7:30 PM on Sunday night, the first night of the time change. 
​
Do this for 3 nights, putting him to bed 30 minutes later than normal.
Then on the 4th night put him to bed at the normal time, 7:00 PM or whatever is normal bedtime for your child.


​Preschooler & Kindy kids (2-5YO)- If you have a toddler ages one and older, on Sunday the first day of the time change, you would put him for his first nap 30 minutes later than normal.  
So, if he naps at 9:30 AM usually, you would put him down at 10:00 AM. 
You would do the same with the afternoon nap if he takes an afternoon nap. 
For bedtime, if his normal bedtime is 7:00 PM, you would put him down at 7:30 PM.   Do this for 3 nights after the time change. 
Then on the 4th night, put him to bed at 7:00 PM. 
On 5th day move nap times back to normal time. So, if your child naps at 9:30 AM, put him down at 9:30 AM and so on with the rest of the day. 
 
Note for Preschooler/Kindergarten/School-aged children:
If you have a Preschooler or an older child who relies on a clock to know when their “morning time” has arrived, set the clock one half hour behind of the new time so that it reads 7:00 AM at the new time of 7:30 AM. 
Allow your child to wake a bit later than normal (they will think it is 7:00 according to the clock but it will be 7:30 AM, new time). This will only be temporary as your child adjusts to wake at their usual 7:00 AM time after about one or two weeks.

Newborns, Infants & Toddlers (0-24months): 
If you have a baby and his bedtime has become predictable (usually over 6 months old) meaning he is always going to bed around the same time each night.  For example, if bedtime is normally 7:00 PM move bedtime 15 minutes earlier each night until you reach the normal time. 
​So, the first night you would put him down at 7:45 PM, the second night 7:30 PM, and so on. In four nights, you should be back to 7:00 PM.  

If their bed is not predictable (0-6 months old) simply jump to the
new time Sunday night as if you were traveling to a new time zone (find out more here). 
​
Another tip that is helpful for those of us living in Canada is to darken your child’s room.  Your child may wake up too early with the sun rising so early now in the morning and may struggle to fall asleep while it is still light outside so darkening the room can be very helpful.  Even though there are extra hours of daylight children still need the same amount of sleep. Here is more info about why sleeping in the dark is so important. Want an easy way to blackout your little ones windows?  Check out SleepOut Home Blackout Curtains!

Special Note: It may take children and babies a bit more time to fall asleep, this is normal, since the time is different initially they won’t be as tired.  
It usually takes about a week for children and babies to completely adjust to the new time, some children it can take up to a month. 
​
Be patient and consistent, it will happen.
            
Happy Sleeping!
Erin Neri

If Daylight Savings is the least of your little ones sleep struggles. Please don't hesitate to reach out!  Let's chat about whats happening.

​Let's get your little one and your whole family sleeping better! 

When we think about healthy sleep for children, we often focus on bedtime routines, sleep environments, and consistent schedules. However, one critical factor frequently overlooked is the role of nutrition—specifically, iron levels. Emerging research highlights a fascinating and important connection between iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and sleep disruptions in infants and young children.


What is Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA)?
Iron deficiency anemia is the most common single nutrient deficiency worldwide, affecting an estimated 20–25% of infants. This occurs during a crucial time of brain growth and development when the body’s demand for iron is exceptionally high. Infants with IDA not only face physical health challenges but also experience disruptions in sleep patterns, which can have long-lasting effects on their cognitive and behavioural development.


How Does Iron Impact Sleep?
Research conducted by the University of Chile and the University of Michigan sheds light on the complex relationship between iron and sleep. Key findings include:

• Sleep Spindles: Infants with IDA have been shown to have altered sleep spindle activity. Sleep spindles, which are brainwave patterns seen during non-REM sleep, are vital for memory consolidation and motor activity regulation. In IDA infants, spindles are fewer and less frequent, indicating potential disruptions in brain development and sleep quality.
• Sleep/Wake Patterns: IDA infants tend to nap longer during the day, have more restless sleep at night, and spend less time in deep sleep (quiet sleep or NREM). Despite iron therapy correcting anemia, some differences in sleep patterns persist into childhood.
• Motor Activity: Actigraphy studies revealed that IDA infants display higher motor activity during sleep, increased nighttime waking, and reduced quiet sleep. These fragmented sleep patterns may hinder cognitive and emotional development.

Long-Term Effects of Iron Deficiency on Sleep
Even after iron levels are corrected, former IDA children may continue to exhibit altered sleep organization:

• REM Sleep Differences: At age four, children who had IDA in infancy show differences in the timing and duration of REM sleep episodes. REM episodes in the early part of the night are longer. In contrast, those in the later part are shorter, disrupting the natural progression of sleep cycles.
• First Sleep Cycle: These children often have shorter deep sleep (SWS) and NREM2 stages in their first sleep cycle, along with a shorter latency to REM sleep, which may indicate long-term impacts on how their brains regulate sleep.

Why This Matters
The connection between iron deficiency and sleep highlights how nutrition can influence physical health, the quality of sleep, and brain development. Poor sleep in early childhood has been linked to issues such as:

• Irritability and mood swings
• Short attention spans
• Hyperactivity
• Learning and memory challenges

Addressing iron deficiency early can help set the stage for better sleep and healthier development.


How to Support Healthy Iron Levels
To ensure your child is getting enough iron to support both their physical health and sleep:

1. Focus on Iron-Rich Foods: Include lean meats, spinach, lentils, beans, and fortified cereals in their diet. Pair these with vitamin C-rich foods like oranges or tomatoes to boost absorption.
2. Monitor Symptoms: Look for signs of iron deficiency such as fatigue, pale skin, or irritability, and consult your pediatrician if you have concerns.
3. Consider Supplements if Needed: In cases of diagnosed IDA, your doctor may recommend iron supplements. Always follow professional guidance to avoid potential side effects of excessive iron intake.

The Bottom Line
Iron plays a critical role in your child’s growth, development, and even their ability to get a good night’s sleep. If your little one is experiencing sleep disturbances, it’s worth considering whether iron levels might be a contributing factor. By addressing this essential nutrient, you can help your child build a foundation for better sleep and a healthier, happier future.
​
When I partner with a family, this link between iron and sleep is something that I am actively looking out for in their child. There have been several times that I have been able to pinpoint low iron as a reason for continued sleep disturbances in infants and children. Sometimes, the last step in the sleep plan is having the child assessed by their Pediatrician and then put on iron supplements when it’s warranted. These supplements make a huge difference for these children, and along with their newfound independent sleep skills, they are now getting the sleep that they need to be happy and healthy.

Reference
Peirano, P. D., Algarín, C. R., Chamorro, R. A., Reyes, S. C., Durán, S. A., Garrido, M. I., & Lozoff, B. (2010). Sleep alterations and iron deficiency anemia in infancy. Sleep Medicine, 11(7), 622–629. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleep.2010.03.014

Creating a calming bedtime environment is essential for your child’s well-being. One simple yet effective way to achieve this is by adding kid-friendly houseplants to their room. Not only do these plants improve air quality, but they also provide a natural sense of calm that helps children unwind before bed. Carefully chosen plants are safe for kids and easy to maintain, making them a practical addition to any home. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, houseplants can reduce stress and promote better sleep. Here, we’ll explore the best options, their benefits, and practical tips for using houseplants to create a soothing space your child will love.

What Makes a Houseplant “Kid-Friendly”?

​Kid-friendly houseplants are safe, easy to care for and fit well into a child’s environment. Safety is the top priority—these plants should be non-toxic if touched or accidentally ingested. Examples include spider plants, parlor palms, and baby rubber plants, all of which are harmless and visually appealing.

Kid-friendly plants are also low-maintenance, requiring minimal watering and care, which makes them ideal for busy households. Additionally, they should be mess-free, meaning they don’t shed leaves or produce pollen that could trigger allergies. Choosing safe and simple plants ensures they enhance your child’s room while remaining practical for you to manage.
​

The Benefits of Houseplants for Children’s Sleep

Houseplants can significantly improve your child’s sleep quality by enhancing the bedroom’s air quality and creating a calming atmosphere. They act as natural air purifiers, reducing allergens and ensuring better breathing during the night. The presence of greenery has a soothing psychological effect, lowering stress and promoting relaxation.

This is especially helpful if your child is transitioning from a crib to a big kid bed. Plants like lavender and chamomile release subtle, sleep-enhancing scents that encourage a restful night. Incorporating houseplants into the bedtime routine helps establish a tranquil environment, ensuring your child drifts off easily and wakes up feeling refreshed and ready for the day.

Top Kid-Friendly Houseplants to Consider

When selecting houseplants for your child’s room, it’s essential to prioritize safety, ease of care, and calming properties. Here are some great options to consider:

• Spider Plant – Low-maintenance, non-toxic, and excellent for purifying indoor air.
• Areca Palm – Adds a tropical feel while being safe for children and pets.
• Calathea – Known for its vibrant patterns and ability to freshen the air.
• Baby Rubber Plant – Compact and durable, ideal for small spaces.
• Boston Fern – Boosts humidity and softens the room’s atmosphere.

These plants enhance the room’s aesthetics and help create a calming, child-friendly environment.

Arrange Houseplants to Maximize Their Benefits

Proper placement of houseplants in your child’s room is key to enhancing their calming effects and ensuring safety. Position plants near windows to provide the natural light they need to thrive, but avoid direct sunlight for delicate varieties. Keep plants out of your child’s reach by placing them on shelves or in hanging pots to prevent accidents.

Arrange them strategically near the bed to promote a soothing atmosphere without overcrowding the space. Use lightweight, non-breakable pots to avoid potential hazards. Rotating plants periodically ensures even growth and consistent air purification. The thoughtful arrangement allows them to blend seamlessly into the room while maximizing their benefits for your child’s sleep.

Create a Calming Bedtime Environment During Relocation

Relocating can be stressful for children, but houseplants can help maintain a sense of comfort and routine. Introducing kid-friendly houseplants in the new space creates familiarity, easing your child’s transition. Choose plants that are easy to transport, like pothos or succulents, to minimize hassle. Involve your child by letting them help arrange plants in their new room, giving them a sense of control and excitement. If you’re moving with house plants in Canada, consider packing them carefully to avoid damage during the trip. Wrap plants securely and keep them upright to ensure they stay healthy while providing comfort in their new home.

How to Care for Kid-Friendly Houseplants Without Overwhelming Your Routine

Caring for kid-friendly houseplants doesn’t have to complicate your day. Opt for low-maintenance plants that require watering just once a week. Use pots with drainage holes to prevent overwatering and keep a consistent schedule for feeding them with plant-safe fertilizers. Dust leaves occasionally to maintain their health and air-purifying abilities.

Also, teach your child simple care tasks, like watering or wiping leaves, to involve them and make the process fun. For example, if you’re busy managing back-to-school routines, choose resilient plants like spider plants or baby rubber plants that thrive with minimal attention. Simplifying care ensures the plants remain vibrant without adding stress to your routine.

Additional Elements to Enhance a Child’s Sleep Environment

​Pairing houseplants with other calming elements can create the perfect sleep environment for your child. Use soft lighting, such as dim nightlights or fairy lights, to establish a cozy atmosphere (fairy lights are for atmosphere only and should be turned off for sleep time). You can also play soothing sounds, like white noise or pink noise, to help your child unwind. Incorporate aromatherapy with child-safe essential oils, such as lavender, to promote relaxation.

Of course, keep the room clutter-free to encourage a sense of peace and order. If your toddler or preschooler is struggling with sleep, layering these elements alongside the benefits of houseplants can make a significant difference. Together, they create a soothing space that encourages restful and uninterrupted sleep.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Houseplants in a Child’s Room

While houseplants can transform a child’s room, some common mistakes can reduce their benefits or create risks. Avoid these pitfalls:

• Overcrowding the space – Too many plants can overwhelm the room and reduce airflow.
• Placing heavy or breakable pots – Choose lightweight, durable options to prevent accidents.
• Overwatering plants – Excess water can lead to mold, which affects air quality.
• Ignoring sunlight needs – Ensure plants get proper light without overheating the room.

Remember, the resting brain works hard during sleep to process information and recover, so maintaining clean air and a clutter-free environment is vital for restful nights. Thoughtful choices can maximize the benefits of houseplants.

Transform Your Child’s Room with Greenery

​Kid-friendly houseplants are a simple yet powerful way to create a calming bedtime environment for your child. From improving air quality to promoting relaxation, their benefits are undeniable. Start with one or two plants to see the difference they make. Enhance your child’s sleep experience and watch how these natural elements transform their room.

Photos used:
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