Better Sleep Tips For Parents

Something that all parents have in common is that we're all exhausted. When you become a parent, you know lack of sleep is just part of the job, but you can never truly appreciate how tough it is until you're in the thick of it. Four years since Em was born, Derek and I are just getting to the point where were sleeping through the night on a fairly regular basis. As humans, sleep is critical to our health. It helps repair our body, regulate hormones, improve mood and other functions. As someone who knows that it's like to be exhausted for years on end, there are some ways that you can get more sleep, or better quality sleep, even when your kids aren't entirely on board with your plans.

Invest in a better bed

A good bed will prevent you from tossing and turning throughout the night due to discomfort. You want the peace of mind knowing that once you actually get to go to bed for the night, that you'll be comfortable and getting the best night's sleep that you can... until you get a wakeup call from a small child. A sturdy bed frame and a high quality mattress will support your body and allow you to rest as best as you possibly can. Whether it’s your screaming newborn, your restless toddler or your child waking up with nightmares- there are already plenty of reasons you’re up at night as a parent. Don’t let an uncomfortable bed be one of them.

Work out a system with your partner

Most of us are balancing work, childcare commitments, school, church callings, and so much more. That while raising children is a heavy load for both parents to carry. Regardless of your situation, try and come up with a plan that allows for each of you to get a good night sleep, even if it's just once a week. Derek and I can usually plan on waking up at least once in the middle of the night to help the kids. We usually trade off that Derek will get up with them one night, and I'll get up with them the next night. Derek also gets up early for work, so if one kid gets up while he's already awake, he'll help them and let me continue sleeping. Workout some system that works well for you and your partner so that you can both repay some sleep debt.

Consider extra help

If you're really struggling, don't feel bad about taking on some extra help. You could hire a cleaner, nanny, or laundry service to tackle some of the jobs you need to so. This frees up time that you can sleep, or do other things. When we lived in Georgia I hired a girl to come and watch my kids just so I could jog around the neighborhood by myself for thirty minutes to an hour. Just having that time to step away and get mental clarity was really valuable to me. Accept offers of help from family members, if an aunt or grandparent wants to take your child out for the day or have them overnight- say yes! It’s extra time that you have to yourself and can get yourself sorted. There’s no need to feel bad about it, everyone needs and deserves a break. Plus it allows loved ones the chance to bond with your child.