How To Get Your Kids To Sleep Better

Every parent has a sleep deficit. After 6 kids, we've found what helps our kids sleep better. If you're in need of more restful nights, give these 7 techniques a go.

1. Routine

Kids thrive on routines. Having a predictable daily plan helps them settle better for bed. My wife's an expert on getting our little ones into a solid sleep rhythm at night and daily naps. The key is to stick to the same times and cues so the kids know what to do.

2. Media

We all know the effects screens and media have on our sleep. It's worse for kids. We don't watch TV during the week and make sure it's off 30mins before bedtime during weekends. After a session on the iPad, the bed seems like a very boring alternative.

3. Sugar

The extra energy from sugar needs to be burned off. When our kids have sugar, we give them a way to run, jump or play it off. Letting kids have sugary drinks or food before bed is a surefire way to no sleep.

4. Naps

Kids need more sleep than us and naps are crucial for them. But we make sure naps are not too close to the actual bedtime (up by 4pm for a 7.30pm night routine). When kids sleep too late in the day, they're simply not tired enough to go to bed.

5. Reading Stories

in bed sends most parents to sleep within mins. We have found some kids fall asleep while you're reading to them, others don't, but they're still calm and ready for sleep. A story before bed invites the kids to gently drift off into dreamland.

6. Fresh Air & Movement

Just recall what a day at the beach or up a mountain does to your tiredness. From when they're babies, we always make sure our kids have at least 30mins outside (the more the better). Fresh oxygen and running outside are the best sleep ais for kids.

7. Worries & Nightmares

Kids will struggle to sleep or wake up due to fears. With our little ones, we leave teddies by the door to protect them at night. With our big ones, we spend time every night talking through what's on their mind. A calm mind is one ready for sleep.

How to ensure kids sleep well at night:

• Limit sugar & no media 30 mins before bed

• Stick to routines for naps, bedtime & activities

• Plenty of outside time to play and burn off energy

• Daily stories and time to talk through their feelings before sleep