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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Lifestyle
Courtney Pochin

Sleep guru's top tip for getting kids to bed when they're excited on Christmas Eve

It can be a difficult task to get children to go to sleep on regular evenings, let alone on special occasions when they're really excited - like birthdays or Christmas time.

If you've been wondering how you're going to get your little ones settled and into bed on the night before Christmas, then fear not as a sleep expert has shared their top tips.

Ori Leslau, the founder of Kally Sleep, has given five pieces of advice for parents ahead of the big day.

He starts by recommending that mums and dads begin by making sure they take their kids out for some fresh air on December 24.

Speaking to The Mirror, he explains: "Enjoying time outside during the day goes a long way towards a good night’s sleep, as fresh air makes our bodies produce more serotonin, which in turn leaves us feeling happy and relaxed.

A sleep expert has shared his top tips to get kids to sleep this Christmas (Getty Images)

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"We naturally burn more energy when we’re outdoors too (especially in chillier weather) so it’s the perfect way to tire the kids out!"

Next Ori advises sticking to your normal routine as much as possible, despite all the festive fun you might be having.

"This one might be easier said than done but it’s still worth keeping as much of a normal routine as you can – even if it takes longer or happens later than usual!

"Chat to your little ones about tomorrow, how it’s going to be different and what they can expect. Then try to get back to normal bedtime routines once January comes around."

Another one of his top tips is to avoid letting the kids have any late-night snacks before bed.

He continues to say: "One of the best things about Christmas is the food! Whilst it’s lovely to indulge, keep an eye on how much sugar your kids are consuming.

"Sugar can stimulate the body (we’ve all heard of 'sugar highs') which can then have a negative effect on quality of sleep. Too much sugar can also make it hard to get to sleep in the first place.

"Choose a cut off time a few hours before bedtime and avoid offering sweets and sugary treats after this time."

His fourth tip is to offer a bedtime distraction, to help them settle down - such as listening to an audiobook or soft, gentle music.

"If your child’s brain is buzzing with excitement on Christmas Eve and sleep is looking less and less likely, try getting them to settle with an audiobook or some quiet music.

"It might well help them to focus their minds on something, rather than laying there attempting to sleep before Santa arrives. Once they’re calm and settled they’re much more likely to nod off naturally."

And finally, make sure you all have some time on Christmas Eve to sit back and relax together.

The expert adds: "Let’s face it, it’s been a crazy year, So why not take the time on Christmas Eve to chill out together as a family – do some baking, enjoy a film or play a game perhaps.

"Set aside some time away from the internet or mobile phones and you’ll be amazed at how everyone relaxes and the kids calm down a lot too.

"A great way to relax young toddlers is by using some basic relaxation techniques. Cuddle them tightly to you while you breathe deeply and you’ll both feel calmer and de-stressed."

Do you have a parenting tip to share? We want to hear all about it. Email us at yourmirror@mirror.co.uk

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