CHRISTMAS is an exciting time of year, especially for little ones, and getting your children to sleep on Christmas Eve can be difficult. While they eagerly await Santa’s visit, experts at Meditopia have revealed five hacks you can use to help your children get a restful night’s sleep.

1 – Limit sugar in the evening

If your child is having sugary food and drinks in the evening, they may struggle to fall asleep. Sugar can lead to spikes in energy levels, making it harder for them to settle down. Instead, try offering calming snacks like a warm glass of milk to help relax them.

2 – Avoid blue light

Many children want to watch TV or spend some time on an iPad in the evening. However, research shows that devices that emit blue light aren’t good for our eyes or our sleep. A study found that individuals who use blue light filtering lenses compared to regular lenses two hours before sleep show fewer symptoms of insomnia and have better sleep quality.

In light of these findings, it’s best for your children to not look at a TV or iPad a few hours before bed. Instead, try playing some board games, listening to Christmas songs, or baking some cookies to leave out for Santa.

3 – Focus on sleep hygiene

Giving your kids a warm bath before bed can help make them sleepy. Change their sheets and pyjamas, bonus points if they are Christmas pyjamas! Clean fabric with a soft smell can help create a good environment for a restful sleep.

Also consider putting a few drops of soothing and relaxing lavender oil on their pillow, letting the smell calm them down.

4 – Create a relaxing sleep environment

As it gets closer to bedtime, try dimming the lights, ensuring the room is a comfortable temperature, and removing distractions like noisy toys. Encourage them to snuggle up with their favourite blanket or stuffed animal to help them relax.

5 – Ease their mind

Now that they feel clean, calm, and relaxed, you may notice their mind wandering with the excitement of the big day ahead. One way to help with this is by putting on calming music, reading them a story, or singing them a lullaby.