How to Get Little Ones to Sleep on Christmas Eve

Cookies out, pyjamas on, excitement levels through the roof! So how do you get to sleep on Christmas Eve? Getting little ones to drift off on the most magical night of the year isn't always easy, so we've joined forces with sleep expert Jenna Wilson to share some top tips for your festive toolkit...

Written in collaboration with award-winning Sleep Consultant and Franchisor, Jenna Wilson, from Little Dreams Consulting, who brings years of expertise in helping families develop healthy sleep habits for their children.

Tip #1 - Encourage active play, but not at bedtime

You can pre-empt a trickier bedtime by ensuring your little one gets plenty of outside play and fresh air during the day. Pop on their snuggly girls' winter coat or boys' coat and head outdoors for some fun physical activity to release some of the excitement - after all, fresh air always aids sleep. Just make sure any high-energy play is not too close to bedtime, as it can overstimulate rather than calm.

Tip #2 - Keep an eye on sugar

We're all for some festive treats, but there’s definitely a lot more sugar around at this time of year! Try to limit sugary snacks and drinks, particularly in the afternoon and evening, because even that cheeky hot chocolate can give your little one a rush of energy at the worst time!

Tip #3 - Create a calm, screen-free evening

Festive films are a must at this time of year, but they can be a bit stimulating just before bed. Try to turn off all screens at least one hour (ideally two) before bedtime and create a calmer pre-sleep routine with quiet games, plushies playtime, sound books or story books. If your family sets out snacks for Father Christmas and his reindeer, it can also be a good idea to do this a bit earlier so the excitement doesn't carry straight into bedtime.

Tip #4 - Stick to your usual routine

With all the excitement and possible travel, consistency is more important than ever on Christmas Eve. So if you're thinking about how to fall asleep on Christmas Eve, try to keep your usual bedtime routine as this will help your little one feel calm, secure and ready for rest, even when the day has been full of surprises.

Finally... Enjoy the magic

If your little one has great sleep skills, a one-off won't undo all your hard work, so enjoy the early, excited wakes and all the Christmas magic…it is only one day, then you can get back on track after the big day itself! To add to the festive fun, treat them to a pair of snuggly, seasonal pyjamas. Pop them in a Christmas Eve box or wrap them as an early gift to delight those eager little hands itching to open something special. Discover even more inspo for what to put in a Christmas Eve box with our handy guide.

Shop Girls' Pyjamas

Shop Boys' Pyjamas

How to Get Little Ones to Sleep on Christmas Eve

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