Travel Tips with Little Ones

Now that it feels like summer has officially arrived, many folks are hitting the road. Whether you’re going to see grandparents, spend a few days at the beach, or are headed to the mountains - traveling with a little one can sometimes be tricky. Besides feeling like you are packing for a year (whether you are going for two night or two weeks!), sometimes the change in environment and schedule can throw the kiddos for a loop. Here are just a few tricks for your fun family adventure.

• Whatever your child is used to sleeping with in their bed - bring it along (blanket, love, etc.).

• Create a similar sleep environment wherever you are. This is one reason why I like to see kids sleeping in a completely dark room! They will be so accustomed to waking up to totally darkness that a change in environment shouldn’t startle them if they wake during the night. Bring the sound machine and make sure the room is dark.  

•  If you are traveling to a different time zone, consider keeping your child on their home time zone bedtimes and wake-ups (this might not be possible). You can also try gradually moving bedtime by about 15 minutes each night (starting about a week before you leave) to adjust to the new time zone before you go. 

• If you are going on a road trip, plan to stop approximately every two hours. Give yourself - and your child - a break. Find a playground, grab a meal, or just stretch your legs. Factor these stops into your travel time and break up the trip if necessary.

• Don’t get too bent out of shape if you experience some early wakeups, push bedtime later, or have to skip a nap or nap on the go. Vacations are about the experience, and you can get back on a schedule when you get home. 

Questions about traveling with a little one - or about anything else? Email me at nikki@nikkinelsonsleepconsulting.com. I’d love to connect!