Summer Sleep Tips for Babies and Toddlers

Summer is here, and many changes to our family’s rhythm come with it. With no school, less structure, more events to attend, and longer days, our nighttime sleep can often get thrown off. And we know how difficult it can be for our littles to get some Zzzs while the sun is still out. At Moms on Call, we've got you covered with our best summer sleep tips.

Keep reading for our 5 favorite summer sleep tips!

Summer Sleep Tip #1: Consistency is key 

• Having a few key markers in the day creates familiarity for our little ones.
• Stick to the schedule as much as life allows!

Summer Sleep Tip #2: Set realistic expectations 

• Especially for those daytime naps!
• This may mean letting your little one hang out and roll with the punches.
• If you are out and about, little can nap in the stroller.
  • Pro summer sleep tip: Always travel with a sound machine.
• Providing time to see new things is important! You can do this while still getting a little rest in too.

Summer Sleep Tip #3: Use the "Crazy Day" times

• Moms on Call parents are used to seeing “C” times in our schedules!
• This is specifically for these Crazy Days.
  • Hit your “C” times, and create consistency when nothing else seems to be normal.
  • Keeping these key few times in place each day can make a world of difference!
• You can locate the “C” times both in the Moms on Call book, the Scheduler App, and the printable schedules in our Online Courses.
• Remember, it is OKAY to have an occasional late dinner/night-time routine for family activities and date nights.

Summer Sleep Tip #4: Visit Friends and Family 

• When visiting with family or friends, it is OKAY to stay out a little late.
• With the younger ones, give them their bedtime feeding at the normal time, then lay them down: in a pack n’ play.
  • Pro summer sleep tip: We recommend using the SlumberPod too (use code MOC for 5% off your purchase), which fits over most travel cribs and toddler cots to create an optimal black-out sleep environment.
    • It’s portable, lightweight, and compact.
    • Easily fits inside carry-on luggage and weighs only 5lbs
    • Comes with its own travel bag
• Didn’t bring a pack n’ play, or they’re enjoying the fun? Another option is to let them hang out! Yup, you read that right! No need to miss out on the fun.
  • Pro summer sleep tip: When you return home, offer a snack feeding and keep the bedtime routine quick and simple.

Summer Sleep Tip #5: Extend tons of grace 

• Your little one's behavior is NOT an indication of your parenting skills or self-worth!
• Taking time to connect with friends and family is just as important.
• Keep in mind kids misbehave or are unpredictable at times, and that is OKAY.
• Pro summer sleep tip: Check out Toddler by Design for some strategies on how to communicate with your toddler in tricky situations.

Did you enjoy these summer sleep tips and want more? Check out one of our recent blogs "Moms on Call’s Guide to Packing for Traveling with Babies and Toddlers" . Moms on Call has many resources, tips and tricks to help keep your life steady and stress free. The Online Video Courses and books cover everything you need to know from summer sleep tips to feeding, sleeping, typical day schedules, FAQs and so much more!