It might be hard to tell with the dramatic spring weather we have been having here in Chicago, but summer is right around the corner!

What does that mean? School is out and daily routines and schedules may look a little different.

Babies and children (and parents, too) love a good routine. Warm weather and outdoor activities can put an unexpected spin on these routines.

But don’t stress! With these 3 tips, you can keep your kiddos sleeping well and still have fun in the sun!

3 Tips to Keep the Sleep and Still Have Summer Fun

BY ERIN WOLEN, SLEEP SQUAD CONSULTANT

Tip #1: Schedule Time for Naps and Sleeping In

Summertime is a season where many memories are made, and our social calendars tend to fill up rather quickly.

When it comes to scheduling activities for your family that may interrupt your children’s bedtime routine, keep a few things in mind:

Make sure the kiddos get good daytime sleep with naps, or if they are older, ensure they get quiet/rest time.

Also, allow your kids to sleep in the following day — but keep it to no more than 30 minutes. Mentally prepare yourself that you may have some cranky children the next day.

Tip #2: Keep Sleep Situations Dark

Summertime brings on the sunshine! Many children go to bed while the sun is still shining during this season.

Our bodies begin to produce melatonin in darkness, so to help get the melatonin flowing, be sure to turn down the lights and close the shades an hour or two before bedtime. Also, make sure that your child’s bedroom is completely dark.

Our favorite tool for ensuring the room is as dark at high noon as it is at midnight is to use EZ Blackout Window Covers. They’re AMAZING!

Tip #3: Remember the 80/20 Rule

For those kiddos who are falling asleep independently, you can use the 80/20 rule!

While your families’ social calendars may be full and you seem to be on the go more than usual, you can implement this helpful rule of thumb: 80% of the naps should be happening in the crib/bed and 20% of them can be on the go (in the car or stroller). This makes planning. for outings so much easier.

If you’re going to implement this rule, it’s best to plan for any short naps or later catnaps in the day to be the naps you do on the go, and to try to get the first nap of the day in the crib/bassinet.