So, what are sleep associations?
Sleep associations are the various stimuli or conditions that we associate with falling asleep. These associations can be both positive and negative, and they play a significant role in our ability to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.
What are positive sleep associations?
Positive sleep associations are the stimuli or conditions that promote healthy and restful sleep. These associations can include a comfortable mattress, a dark and quiet sleep environment, and a consistent bedtime routine. By establishing positive sleep associations, we can create an environment that signals to our child that it's time to sleep.
Why are positive sleep associations important?
Positive sleep associations are important because they help us establish a healthy sleep routine for our children and improve the quality of their sleep. When they consistently associate certain stimuli or conditions with sleep, their brain begins to recognizse these cues and prepares their body for rest. This can lead to faster sleep onset, longer sleep duration, and fewer disruptions during the night.
How can you establish positive sleep associations?
Establishing positive sleep associations requires consistency and creating a sleep-friendly environment. Here are a few tips to help you establish positive sleep associations:
- Create a bedtime routine: as well as hygiene related activities like baths and teeth cleaning, this can include reading a bedtime story (or, more often than not - stories), singing a song, or saying goodnight to your child's stuffed animals.
- Create a sleep-friendly environment: ensure that their bedroom is dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature. Use blackout curtains, white noise, and make sure that their sleeping bag is the correct tog for the time of year.
- Avoid stimulating activities before bed: try to help your child wind down before bedtime - often easier said than done!
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, Positive sleep associations are an important aspect of children achieving restful and rejuvenating sleep. By creating a sleep-friendly environment and establishing consistent bedtime routines, you can promote healthy sleep habits for your child and encourage them to fall asleep faster, for longer.