The June holiday season just flew by and it was the first summer that our family didn’t head to the southern hemisphere. We all know what that means. Yup, early, early sunrises and late, late sunsets. With light and darkness being the vital controls of one’s ability to fall asleep and to wake up, you can imagine my struggle to get the kids to sleep in the “evening” and to stay asleep past 5am!
Why is that so? It has to do with the 9pm sunsets and 5am sunrises. Circadian rhythms play a key role in a child’s ability to sleep for 9 to 12 hours a night. As the sun sets in the evening (darkness), the brain begins producing melatonin, a hormone that induces sleepiness. Combined with sleep pressure (accumulated need to sleep over time) will cause a person to fall asleep at night. In the morning, as exposure to light increases, melatonin production stops and body temperature rises, signaling the body and brain to wake.
With time not being our sleep ally at this time of the year, and staying in new locations, there are some small but useful items which I packed to save at least 40 winks.
1. Blu Tack
My number one item which never fails to come in handy. In my many stays in hotels or Airbnbs, inconspicuous light sources (light switches, aircon and TV sensors) can turn into beacons, illuminating the entire room. Some children may also be fearful of a bright red “eye” in the middle of the night. The Blu Tack can easily cover up these light sources and can be removed cleanly when you leave or reused at the next destination.
Of course, let’s not forget its primary purpose, which is a versatile and multi-purpose adhesive. Use it to patch up the side of curtains to reduce light leaks, put up portable sensor lights or even dot the bottom of fragile items to prevent breakage in your luggage.
2. Portable Night Light
A portable night light is another indispensable item which I will pack for every holiday without fail, even for short weekend staycations. In this modern day and age of hi-tech and sophisticated lighting systems, figuring out which switch is for which light may be a daunting task, especially the first few nights. A motion sensor light can prevent a blast of bright light being switched on accidentally in the middle of the night. This setup works really well for baby diaper changes, kids going to the potty or even for adults going to the toilet in the middle of the night without stumbling and fumbling with unfamiliar light switches.
This setup works really well for baby diaper changes, kids going to the potty or even for adults going to the toilet in the middle of the night without stumbling and fumbling with unfamiliar light switches.
There’s an option to bring either a small motion sensor night light which you can attach to the entrance of the bathroom or a carry-along night light.
3. Black Trash Bags (Large)
This may seem like an oddity but these have helped me in numerous occasions when the “blackout” curtains or blinds were merely dimming. I do not expect home conditions on travels but if sunlight comes flooding in at 5.30am because the night curtains are not up to par, I have to be prepared.
I will usually just pack 3 to 4 pieces of large black trash bags and double them up as dividers or covers in the luggage. Some Blu Tack or sticky tape will come in handy to put the bags up.
Also, if I don’t end up using the trash bags to block out light, I will just use them as a laundry bag or a picnic “blanket”. Super versatile!
4. Eye Masks
An eye mask is another item that I must pack, for myself and the kids. I have found this useful in numerous occasions, such as for car and plane naps and in my case below, was an impromptu nap at the airport while waiting in transit.
If your baby or child resists wearing an eye mask, you can try to slip it on or place over her eyes while she is in deep sleep so that it will be easier for her to connect her sleep cycles when she stirs during her nap.
You can also bring your child to shop for the eye mask in preparation for the trip and explain to her what it is for, to get her buy-in as well.
5. Portable Sound Machine
A sound machine had been my lifesaver in many situations. Interestingly, it has worked for me in both quiet and noisy locations. If, unfortunately, your location is noisy or not conducive for sleeping, the sound machine can help to mask out any sudden eruption of sounds, like car horn blaring, ambulance going by or street noise. In quiet locations, the sound machine provides steady and comforting white noise, especially if your kids are used to sleeping with fans or the hum of the air-conditioning.
There are many types to choose from, even ones which can be clipped onto the stroller. To get your children accustom to the sound, you can start using it at home first, for both naps and night sleep.
In Conclusion
As much as we would like to be prepared for every scenario to ensure everyone gets good sleep during a vacation, there will definitely be instances when situations can be out of our control. The key is to plan the itinerary mindfully, take in the sights and experience and have a good time. There is always time to get back on schedule after the holidays.
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