Coping with a young child during hot nights was never easy, I remember. My daughter is now 23 but this UK heatwave is bringing back memories of the strategies I employed to help her sleep. Through trial and error I tried various things like turning on the electric fan and quickly turning it off for fear the whirring noise would further keep her up. I also used those hand held paper fans to fan her but gave up when my hand hurt. It was farcical.
Please note that while I am not a medical professional and advise you to seek advice from a GP or midwife for medical issues, these tips, shared with you below, did help me enormously.
- Keep the bedroom cool: I would leave the window open in the late afternoon for a few minutes for fresh air to circulate though there is advice to say that windows and curtains/blinds should be kept closed to keep the room cool.
- Dress appropriately: Choose lightweight and breathable pajamas made of cotton or other natural materials. Avoid synthetic fabrics that can trap heat and moisture. Pay attention to the sheets too in the coat or bed. Cotton is better than nylon during hot nights.
- Hydrate: Ensure your child drinks plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Offer water before bedtime as well, but be mindful of excessive fluid intake close to bedtime to avoid frequent trips to the bathroom.
- Limit daytime activities: Encourage your child to engage in calmer, relaxing activities during the day, especially during the hottest hours. Avoid vigorous exercises or playing outside during peak heat.
- Cool showers or baths: A lukewarm or cool shower before bed can help lower your child’s body temperature and make them feel refreshed. Alternatively, dampen a washcloth with cool water and gently wipe their face, neck, and arms.
- Consider alternative sleeping arrangements: If the heat is unbearable indoors, consider setting up a temporary sleeping area in a cooler part of your home, such as the basement or a room on a lower floor. My daughter and I would often sleep on mattresses on the lounge tiled floor during especially hot nights.
