The day is drawing to a close. Your beautiful, snuggly newborn baby starts to fuss, then starts to moan, then starts to cry, possibly even scream—woah, what’s this?! I’m afraid the witching hour has hit, my friend.
What is the witching hour for babies?
What is the witching hour, you may ask? It’s an intense period of fussiness or crying in the evenings, usually around 5 PM and lasting up to three hours. You’ll usually start seeing this when your baby hits 2 weeks of age, but the worst may pass by 12 weeks.
When the witching hour starts and when it ends
Witching hour typically occurs in the late afternoon or early evening. Usually around the 5 PM mark. Unfortunately, it doesn’t just last an hour, as the name suggests.
You may notice your newborn begin to have “fussy periods” where they’re hard to calm and console and your usual techniques of rocking or baby-wearing to calm may not help.
These regular fussy periods typically start when they reach 2 – 3 weeks of age. It hits its worst period at 6 weeks and tends to resolve in most cases by 12 weeks [1].
Why does the witching hour happen?
It’s challenging to nail down one particular culprit for your baby. Some things may either be responsible or at least may make the newborn witching hour worse like overtiredness, cluster feeding, stomach issues, or overstimulation.
Are they gassy?
Young babies are particularly vulnerable to gas and tummy issues. Their digestive systems are immature and if gas builds up it can cause discomfort and sometimes pain.
Is your baby overtired?
It’s pretty much impossible to fit very young babies into a by-the-clock schedule as they’re so unpredictable! Instead, we recommend working with wake windows at this age throughout the day. Typically, at 1 – 2 months of age, they will stay awake for 45 – 90 minutes at a time. It’s very usual for babies to catnap at this age, so if they’ve had long periods awake in the day, or just catnapped all day, then they may be overtired by 5 PM and super cranky!
How’s their day been?
How many visitors have you had? How many baby classes have you attended? For newborns everything is new. Sights, sounds, people, touch, and even their own hands! It’s easy for them to become overwhelmed and overstimulated. This stimulation requires energy, and as we all know (particularly parents of newborns) our ability to just keep going is limited.
Are they hungry?
It’s not uncommon for newborns to cluster feed in the evenings, topping up their tanks for the night. Even if you’ve only just fed them, they may be signaling to you that they’d like some more milk.
What are the differences between colic and witching hour for babies?
Colic is more defined. Babies with colic cry for more than 3 hours a day, for more than 3 days a week, and more than 3 weeks in a row. The baby’s witching hour will see periods of fussiness, on and off throughout the evenings. It may be intense and seem like it will never end.
Yes, they’re similar and both are incredibly stressful for parents. If you’re unsure or feel there may be more going on than general evening fussiness, please, discuss this with your pediatrician.
10 Tips on How to Manage the Witching Hour for Babies
iStock
Tip 1: Swaddle!
For many babies, swaddling can induce a womb-like environment which is reassuring and can bring a sense of calm. The swaddle can also bring a sense of security. Remember if they start to show signs of rolling then you need to transition out of the swaddle.
Tip 2: White noise.
Again, when the baby was in the womb they were used to a constant background hum. White noise also helps mask any background noises that may be too much.
Tip 3: Baby wear or hold.
Walk, sway – just cuddle them! No, you’re not setting up any bad habits, making a rod for your back, or anything else we regularly hear parents say. Your warmth and presence can be a huge comfort for your little one.
Tip 4: Try a change of environment.
Some babies will also calm down if taken outside for a walk in the fresh air. Which, if you’ve been subjected to intense, inconsolable crying for a while, will also be good for you too.
Tip 5: Quieten the environment.
Other babies may respond to quieting the environment, dimming the lights, and getting away from the background noises that can add pressure to an already overstimulated baby.
Tip 6: Prioritize those naps.
Some babies are more thrown than others when they go off schedule. If this is your baby and missing a nap leads to intense witching hour evenings then you may want to try hard to stick to a schedule. We’re all so different. Some babies are super portable and others need more structure and routine to their day.
Tip 7: Baby massage.
Try a gentle baby massage in a quiet, warm environment; they may respond to the touch, gentle movements, and calm. It also may help with growth spurt aches.
Tip 8: Try a pacifier.
For some babies, the rhythmic sucking can bring a sense of calm and peace.
Tip 9: Rule out gas pains.
Gas pains can cause intense discomfort and pain. Check out our blog advice for burping your baby.
Tip 10: Tick off the obvious stuff, too!
Double-check their diaper, temperature, and offer a feed. These are all reasons for excessive crying and easy to forget.
When to Talk to Your Pediatrician
If your kiddo’s crying seems to be linked to pain or sickness, check with your pediatrician. Keep track of other signs of sickness that may include:
Fever
Vomiting
Diarrhea (loose or bloody stools as well)
Not eating
Not alert as usual
Witching Hour for Babies FAQ
Q: How to get baby to sleep during the witching hour?
A: Unfortunately, there may not be an easy solution, but finding ways to reduce the fussiness can help. You may want to try a variety of things to see which works best for your baby. This can include swaddling, baby-wearing, massage, and other activities.
Q: Do all babies have a witching hour?
A: Some babies may have a witching hour, while others may not! It’s a period of fussiness or crying in the evenings. You’ll usually start seeing this when your baby hits 2 weeks of age, but the worst may pass by 12 weeks.
Q: Why do kids get cranky in the evening?
A: As the day draws to a close it’s common for babies and older children to feel the effects of too much fun! Overtired children can be incredibly cranky.
Q: What age does the witching hour start?
A: Typically, you’ll see the witching hour start around the age of 2 – 3 weeks.
Q: At what age does the witching hour end?
A: For most families, it peaks around 6 weeks and then lessens. By 12 weeks evenings should be calmer and that’s when babies outgrow the witching hour.
Q: Why do kids go crazy after dinner and before bed?
A: Overtired children can be cranky. However, overtired children can then also get a second wind, their hormones kick back in, and just keep them going. They may appear quite hyperactive.
Summer can mean non-stop action. Here’s how to relax your mind so you can keep going.
Between summertime and back-to-school, this time of year is a lot. And there’s no shame in admitting it, either. July and August can be all about making awesome memories and having a ton of fun. It can also be pretty stressful and overwhelming at the same time. It’s okay if it’s all of those things at once. There’s so much going on between swim lessons, camp, work, school supply shopping, and, you know, making dinner. No matter how the day went, getting to relax your mind (during any season, of course) is a major part of staying ready for anything mom life throws your way.
With everything going on, learning to rock relaxation can take a backseat. But keeping your mental health a priority as much as possible is as good for you as it is for your kids. We know it’s easier said than done, so we put together some fast and effective ideas to help keep you feeling your best.
Organic Ashwagandha
Vimergy
What's the deal with ashwagandha? It's an adaptogen (a class of plants known for stress, fatigue, and anxiety support when ingested as teas, powders, tinctures and supplements, or raw). Vimergy's liquid ashwagandha extract is easy to add to smoothies, juice, water, or even just taken directly. You can look forward to improved response to stress, healthier cognitive function, and relief for occasional insomnia. Organic Ashwagandha ($24.00)—Buy Here!
Clevr Blends SuperTea
Clevr Blends
You might know Clevr Blends SuperLattes from Oprah's Favorite Things. With all the barista-style drinks for mood, energy, and stress, their SuperLattes are a can't-go-wrong choice. We're also loving their new SuperTeas for hydration, gut health, and stress support. Available in 3 blends. Clevr Blends SuperTea ($28.00)—Buy Here!
Hey Dewy Wireless Facial Humidifier
Hey Dewy
Rock dewy skin no matter where you are with this wireless and rechargeable humidifier. If you can't get a full spa day scheduled, create one in your office, the car, while you travel with the Hey Dewy. Available in 5 colors. Hey Dewy Wireless Facial Humidifier ($59.95)—Buy Here!
Hug Sleep Pod
Hug Sleep
If you've ever swaddled your baby and thought, "wow, that looks really soothing, actually", the Hug Sleep Pod is for you. It's cocoon-like design applies gentle calming pressure, making it easier for your body to relax and fall asleep. It's available in multiple sizes, open-bottom styles, and a kid's option, too. Hug Sleep Pod (Starting at $69.99)—Buy Here!
Gravity Weighted Blankets
Gravity
Weighted blankets are definitely a proven tool for unwinding, but why are they all grey? Gravity's weighted blankets come in multiple sizes and colors, so you can relax and match your bedroom decor. Gravity Weighted Blankets ($250.00+)—Buy Here!
Apollo Neuro Wearable
Apollo Neuro
The Apollo wearable, developed by neuroscientists and physicians, uses low frequency sound waves felt as soothing vibrations to give you better sleep, more energy, relaxation, and focus. It's drug-free, so kids and parents can both use it for better sleep, clarity, and a boost of energy (hello, back-to-school). Right now, save $40 on an Apollo wearable using the code B2S23 valid until August 31, 2023. Apollo Wearable ($349.00)—Buy Here!
Recess Mood Magnesium Calming Beverage
Recess
Recess Mood Magnesium Calming Beverage blends magnesium, those adaptogens we've been talking about, and sparkling water for a great non-alcoholic alternative that calms and balances without drowsiness (and they're fun to drink, too). Recess Mood Magnesium Calming Beverage, Variety 12pk ($41.48)—Buy Here!
Mood Pod
Moon Pod
Sit, recline, or lay on the Moon Pod and you'll see why this anti-gravity updated cousin of the beanbag is so popular. There are lots of different accessories, too, so you can customize your Moon Pod, and we're pretty sure you'll wonder where it's been all your life. Moon Pod ($299.00+)—Buy Here!
White noise helps trigger your brain to start relaxing for sleep, and this machine from Homedics includes classic white noise, thunder, the ocean, and more, so you can find what you respond to best. Plus, it's small, so you can take it anywhere. Homedics SoundSleep White Noise Sound Machine ($21.99 Prime Day $15.39)—Buy Here!
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
A lot of parenting is timeless, but baby supplies and tech just keep getting better
Whether you’re a brand new parent or a few years in, we’re constantly on the lookout for baby supplies to make everyday tasks easier. Anything that gives us time back for ourselves and allows us to be more present for our families is a win in our books, so we’ve brought you our list of some of the best tech for babies out there that does all that and more! This is the gear that you might not even know you needed, but these baby supplies and tech is about to change your life.
eufy S340 Smart Sock Bundle
eufy
Baby monitors have come a long way, and the Smart Sock Bundle from eufy proves it. You get alerts when your babe is awake or fussy both through your phone and through the included base. The Smart Sock keeps track of your baby's real-time sleep data, including heart rate, sleep status and movements, and provides daily sleep reports—all without having to pay a monthly fee. Plus, the 2K resolution camera allows you to check on your little one anytime. eufy S340 Smart Sock Bundle ($449.98)—Buy Here!
Baby Brezza Pro Advanced Formula Mixer
Baby Brezza
Imagine this: a fresh bottle of formula with no measuring, no mixing, no problem. Sound good? The Baby Brezza mixes formula and water with the tap of a button with fully customizable sizes from 2-10oz, three heat settings, and a water-only dispensing feature. It works with virtually all brands of baby formula and all bottle designs. Over 8,000 reviews rate the Baby Brezza 4.5 out of 5 stars. Baby Brezza Pro Advanced Formula Mixer ($177.06)—Buy Here!
Baby Brezza Smart Soothing Mat
Target
Designed by a maternity nurse and baby crying expert, the Baby Brezza Smart Soothing Mat is the only one of its kind that mimics the sounds and motions of the womb, which turns on your little one's self-soothing and sleep impulse. Use the free app to operate via Bluetooth and customize the Soothing Mat's settings. Plus, it's light and portable, so you'll never have to be without. Baby Brezza Smart Soothing Mat ($99.99) Buy Here!
This is a level of baby bathing we not-so-secretly would love for ourselves, too. The rotating shower arm plus soft-feel sling cradle your wee one and can be removed as they grow. The handheld shower head gives you full control and offers a massage to soothe and calm little ones. The First Years Rain Shower & Baby Spa Tub ($69.99) Buy Here!
Nanit Pro Complete Monitoring System
Nanit
The Nanit Pro Complete Monitoring System includes everything you could possibly need to monitor your infant's every move. Including the pro camera, wall mount, portable multi-stand, small sensor-free breathing band, and Smart Sheet to track growth! It also includes two-way audio, and the split-screen feature allows you to to see and control more than one camera simultaneously in-app. Nanit Pro Complete Monitoring System ($343.90) Buy Here!
TruBliss Evi Smart Bassinet
Target
This bassinet does it all. No, seriously. From ambient light, to sounds, to rocking, to even connecting to Alexa, Google Home, or the app, it does it all.TruBliss Evi Smart Bassinet ($399.99)—Buy Here!
Tiny Traveler Portable Video Car Baby Monitoring System
Tiny Traveler
We've bought more than one of those backseat mirrors and honestly, we just don't love them. This car baby monitoring system takes car safety to the next level. With up to 4 hours of battery life, night vision, and split-screen monitoring, you'll wonder how you lived without it. Tiny Traveler Portable Video Car Baby Monitoring System ($269.99)—Buy Here!
Smart Weigh Comfort Baby Scale
Smart Weigh
One of the most important indicators of baby's health is their weight, and this smart digital scale lets you stay on top of it! It's perfectly designed for your little one and offers a 44lb. capacity. Almost 3,000 Amazon reviews rate it 4.3 stars, so you'll feel good adding it to your baby supply list. Smart Weigh Comfort Baby Scale (34.99)—Buy Here!
BlueSmart mia2 Intelligent Baby Feeding Monitor
Target
You may have been keeping track of your little one's feedings using a notebook by the rocking chair, or trying to rely on your memory (hello, Mom Brain), but this Intelligent Baby Feeding Monitor takes all that off your plate. It automatically records feeding portions using its baby-safe silicon sleeve that fits on almost any regularly-shaped bottle and syncs to the BlueSmart Baby Tracker App. BlueSmart mia2 Intelligent Baby Feeding Monitor ($99.99)—Buy Here!
The noise detection on the Sense2Snooze Bassinet responds to baby's cries and adjusts soothing settings like motion and sound to gently encourage them back to sleep. It also includes dimmable lighting and built-in wheels so you can relax them in any room of the house. Graco Sense2Snooze Bassinet ($319.97)—Buy Here!
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
These are the baby monitors that will help you rest easier
Nanit versus Owlet? Miko versus Cubo? Baby monitors have come such a long way from what our parents had when we were young. They aren’t just essentially one-way radios anymore; these are high-tech gadgets that come in a bunch of choices. There are more baby monitors out there than there are sleepless nights in your future. And with so much already on your mind being the parent of a baby, wading through a million different monitor options, all promising to be the absolute best on the market, isn’t exactly easy. There are so many to choose from, and each one does something just a little bit different. That’s where we come in. We’re here to help you sort through all the best baby monitor details.
We’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best monitors on the market. From wearables to AI to the high-tech video monitors, we’ve got you covered. You can do all the comparisons right here (afterall, the Nanit versus Owlet debate is a hot-button topic in the parenting world). So whether you’re up late rocking a newborn, looking to upgrade your existing monitor, or shopping for a baby shower gift, we’ve got it all right here.
Miku Pro Smart Baby Monitor
Miku
A contact-free, real-time respiratory baby monitor, the Miku Pro tracks your little one's breathing and sleep without the use of wearables. That means babies can sleep in any clothing, in any position (both within those infant safety guidelines your pediatrician shared with you), and you can still use this monitor as your child gets older. Create customizable alerts to track movement, sleep, sounds, temperature, humidity and more. The monitor can also play white noise and lullabies to help put your little bundle of joy to sleep. Miku Pro Smart Baby Monitor ($389.98)—Buy Here!
Nanit Pro Monitor & Complete Monitoring System
Nanit
The Nanit Pro camera (available on its own or in a bundle) tracks baby's sleep metrics, breathing motion, temperature, humidity and even height while saving images on crystal-clear HD video. The complete monitoring system bundle includes the camera, a Breathing Band to monitor baby's breathing motion, and Smart Sheets that tracks physical growth. The camera comes with a wall mount; or you can snag a floor stand. You can also purchase Nanit Pajamas, which monitor baby's breathing motion in real time without wires or sensors and alerts you when your they need you. Nanit Pro Monitor & Complete Monitoring System ($379.00)—Buy Here!
Cubo AI Baby Monitor
Cubo AI
There's a lot of sophisticated technology packed inside this cute, bird-shaped monitor. The Cubo uses face detection technology to alert you if your baby's mouth and nose may be covered, either from rolling over on their tummy or having an item covering their face. Set the danger zone alert to let you know if your baby is scaling their crib, or position it around the house to know when your child is too close to the stairs or other potentially unsafe areas. A text alert pops up on your phone when Cubo detects your child's cry. And the AI is even smart enough to notice smiles and larger movements and automatically take photos of them for your viewing pleasure.
Other features include 1080p HD night vision, a wide-angle (135-degree) viewing area, 18-hour video replay, built-in nightlight, temperature & humidity gauge and 4x digital zoom. Three included stands (crib stand, floor stand, and mobile stand) means the monitor grows with your child. Cubo AI Baby Monitor ($299.00)—Buy Here!
Owlet Cam
Owlet Baby Care
This clever camera rests on a magnetic base so you can position it wherever you like; then use the included cable guard kit to secure cables out of baby's reach. There's a secure, encrypted WiFi connection to keep out hackers, but you and other loved ones can view your child on high-definition 1080p video on your phone. Set the Owlet app in Background Mode and you can hear your baby while you use your phone for other tasks. Owlet Cam ($99.99)—Buy Here!
Oma Sense Baby Breathing Movement Monitor by Levana
Levana
This breathing monitor clips on to baby's clothing to monitor stomach movements. If a lack of movement is detected, the monitor vibrates to stimulate the baby and alerts you to the situation. If there's still no movement, the monitor emits an emergency audio alarm so you can check on your baby. Cordless and battery powered, you can easily pop it in a diaper bag for overnights at grandma's house or longer trips. Oma Sense Baby Breathing Movement Monitor by Levana ($82.99)—Buy Here!
Angelcare 3-in-1 Baby Monitor
Angelcare
A 5-inch touchscreen provides clear night vision of your sleeping babe as well as an easy way to access the unit's settings. The unit in the nursery can be placed on a tabletop or the wall transmits a clear image and displays the room's temperature. The monitor comes with a wireless baby movement sensor pad to monitor baby's movement; the monitor sounds if no movement is detected for 15 seconds. Angelcare 3-in-1 Baby Monitor ($274.99)—Buy Here!
The Lollipop
Lollipop
If you're not into wearable monitors, the Lollipop is a great option. AI technology monitors your babe's breathing and filters out ambient noise like wind to accurately alert you when crying is detected. With 1080p Full HD quality, checking on your baby through the Lollipop live feed on your tablet or smartphone from anywhere you are is no problem. You can even set a border inside the camera view to track movements in your baby’s crib. If anything happens outside the border, you’ll be notified. The Lollipop ($159.99)—Buy Here!
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
Middle school graduation gift ideas? Don’t even get us started. Okay fine, let us share our two cents on this one. The thing with middle school graduation is that it’s a pretty big deal. It’s not high school, but it’s also not elementary school. It’s the transition between childhood and preteen years. So, you want to get a gift that’s not too immature or too grown up. Middle school graduation gift ideas can be tough to come up with, especially when you want to find something that’s both thoughtful and age-appropriate.
There are plenty of classic gift options, but as we remember all too well, their image is ultra-important. So, really, it doesn’t hurt to also keep in mind it truly is the thought and the gift that count with tweens. And that’s totally okay! It’s completely normal and absolutely part of growing up. We rounded up some of our favorite middle school graduation gifts that (since we’re still ultra-cool and with it) we feel pretty confident they’ll love (and love showing off to all their friends!). The transition from middle to high school is a big deal and we’ve got the gifts to commemorate it!
Doomlings
Doomlings
They're getting more independent, but an easy way to keep them close a little longer is by rounding up the crew and playing a game that they'll actually want to play. Doomlings is quirky, funny, and perfect for family game night. It works as a 2 player game and up to a party of 6, so it's great for summertime staycations, road trips, and camping weekends, too. With over 4,000 5-star reviews, you seriously can't go wrong. Doomlings ($24.99+)—Buy Here!
Real Review: "I got this for my nephews (ages 8 and 10) and not only did they love it, the whole family did! Loads of fun, really easy to pick up how to play, and really cute graphics!"—Mylène H.
Designed for athletes and busy kids alike, these recovery sneakers are breathable, sustainable, and feel incredible on! They come in a bunch of colors and are gender-neutral. Kane Revive Sneakers ($75.00)—Buy Now!
iWalk Portable Phone Charger
iWalk
TikTok isn't going to scroll itself! Don't let them get stuck with a dying phone (which is like, the worst thing ever). This super cool charger comes in 6 colors to match their phones, too. iWalk Portable Phone Charger ($34.99)—Buy Now!
This is such a sweet cuff with a hidden message (just in case they get a little embarrassed by sentiment—we were 13 once, too)! "Believe in You" Cuff ($12.97)—Buy Now!
LEGO Technic App-Controlled Transformation RC Toy Car 42140
Middle school to high school means big feelings, and getting tweens into journaling their feelings is a great way to teach them healthy ways of handling them. DIY Journaling Kit ($19.99)—Buy Now!
Everyday California Floating Waterproof Snapback Surf Hat
It sure seems like we're proud supporters of the customized lighting movement. And that's because we are. The LED strip lights from Govee has vivid colors and lots of options for customization. Govee 32.8ft Color Changing LED Strip Lights ($22.99)—Buy Now!
Pave Lightning Bolt Nap Earrings
Maison Miru
Remind them how powerful they are with these lightning bolt nap earrings from Maison Miru! What makes them nap earrings? The flat backs mean they can wear them all the time, even to sleep! Pave Lightning Bolt Nap Earrings ($85.00)—Buy Now!
Throw Throw Burrito
Target
It's a combination of a card game and dodgeball! Players go head-to-head collecting cards, earning points, and throwing squishy toy burritos at one another. From the creators of The Oatmeal and Exploding Kittens, this game is a whole lot of fun! This card game takes 5 minutes to learn and 15 minutes to play. You had us at "burrito". Throw Throw Burrito ($24.99)—Buy Now!
This light up flying disc isn't a plain old Frisbee! As the original and patent-pending invention, the TOSY Disc is 100x brighter than any other light-up flying disc. It looks super cool, especially when you throw it outdoors at night! TOSY Ultimate Disc LED ($39.99)—Buy Now!
Charge all the essentials—phone, watch, and AirPods—all at one time with the super fast and powerful (and compact!) Chargetree from STM Goods! STM Goods Chargetree ($119.95)—Buy Now!
Athleta Excursion Mini Belt Bag
Athleta
Belt bags are having a moment right now, and we're loving the Mini Excursion from Athleta for our soon-to-be high schoolers! They're the perfect size for anything they need, keep them hands-free, and come in 4 colors. Seriously trending gift? Check! Athleta Excursion Mini Belt Bag ($49.00)—Buy Now!
Crocs Classic Clog
Foot Locker
Love 'em or hate 'em, Crocs are back in a big way. It probably has a lot to do with how comfortable they are, but it doesn't hurt that they come in a bunch of colors and styles, too. Crocs Classic Clog ($39.99)—Buy Now!
Allkinds Bath & Body for Kids & Teens
Allkinds
Bath & body essentials they’ll use on a daily basis. The six Allkinds collections have their own active ingredients, colour, theme, and 100% natural signature fragrance. Sweet Talk, Lazy Days, Cosmic Choc, Superfresh, Hey Vacay, and more! They smell unbelievable and are perfect for mixing and matching, too. Allkinds Bath & Body for Kids & Teens—Shop Now!
Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera & Accessory Kit
Fujifilm/Amazon
We mentioned the importance of pictures, so make sure they have some to display with this Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera! It comes with everything they could need for capturing important moments. It also comes in four colors! Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera & Accessory Kit ($134.99)—Buy Now!
The jellies from our youth are back, but way more chic. These Jella Slides are perfect for the pool, and if your middle schooler is anything like ours, they look pretty cute with socks, too! They come in multiple colors, also. UGG Jella Clear Slide Sandals ($95.00)—Buy Now!
Y2K Bracelets
Amazon
Yep, we said "Y2K". Believe it or not, the styles we wore in high school while wondering if all the computers in the world would shut down on New Year's Eve 1999 are back. We'd be lying if we said we weren't eyeing these bracelets for ourselves. Y2K Bracelets ($9.99)—Buy Now!
Sunset Lamp
TRENDY PRO/Amazon
Golden Hour at any hour! This fun lamp makes it happen. It's awesome for relaxing, TikTok videos, pictures, and more! Sunset Lamp ($23.99)—Buy Now!
M&Ms, jelly beans, peanuts, gumballs—whatever they're into, this dispenser is perfect. After all, now that they're going into high school, you can show that you trust them to keep candy in their rooms. Maybe. Sharper Image Candy Dispenser ($21.99)—Buy Now!
Tortilla Blanket
Amazon
Maybe they don't use their baby blankets anymore, but who wouldn't want to be wrapped up like a burrito?? Tortilla Blanket ($19.99)—Buy Now!
MYNT3D Professional Printing 3D Pen with OLED Display
MYNT3D
Hold the magic of 3D printing in your hand with the MYNT3D Professional 3D Pen! Now you can use FDM technology in any application from drafting and prototyping to spatial learning and 3D sculpting. Young artists and budding engineers will adore this! MYNT3D Professional Printing 3D Pen with OLED Display ($59.99)—Buy Now!
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
In honor of Mammoth’s record-breaking snowfall, your guide to skiing Mammoth—from which lodge is best, what to do if you don’t ski, where to stay in Mammoth with kids, and where to eat is here—plus insider hacks to make your ski experience the best one ever
“With 28-30” of snow since yesterday afternoon, we just blew through our all-time season snowfall record of 668”. We’ve received 695” of snowfall to date at Main Lodge, making the 22/23 season the biggest in our history!
To our employees, to this community, to all of you who have battled the elements this season – YOU are the stuff of legends. Thank you, thank you, thank you. 💪🏽 It’s going to be a legendary spring up here and we’ll be open daily through at least July!”
– Mammoth Mountain
Mammoth Lakes, which sits at close to 8,000 feet (if you’re keeping track that’s about 1,600 feet higher than Lake Tahoe), typically has a long ski season but thanks to a record-breaking snowfall this year, Mammoth is slated to stay open for skiing at least through July and quite possibly, as late as August. If you were waiting for a sign to finally get your family up on skis or snowboarding, now’s the time to take advantage of the best (and brag-worthy) conditions. And, as we approach spring, the mountain just gets better and better—more sun, less wind, means less layers.
From world-class ski schools, après ski experiences catered just for kids, a multitude of activities off the slope, and a variety of lodging options to suit your family, Mammoth is a world-class destination that is, lucky for California families, within easy reach.
Whether your family is new to skiing, could use a lesson or two, here are the best places to learn how to ski in Mammoth, what else there is to do off the slopes with toddlers and big kids, which nearby restaurants are kid-friendly, and of course, and which cozy hotels are best for a snow-based adventure everyone will enjoy.
Mammoth is kid-friendly and isn’t the sleepy little town you remember (there are loads of hotel and restaurant options galore—and for foodies, the Voltaggio brothers just opened Vulcania in the Village last year). Add to that a straightforward drive you can handle (it’s about a two-movie drive, with a break in between for a potty break!), or a quick flight, it should become your new winter and springtime tradition.
Everything You Need to Know about Skiing in Mammoth—Especially for Beginners & First Time Skiers
Like we said before, spring in Mammoth means mild conditions, a sunny après scene and the chance to take advantage of the season’s massive snow fall. The mountain itself is large and spread out, offering loads of options for every type of snow play.
Good to Know: On the mountain, there are three lodges: Main Lodge, Canyon Lodge, and Eagle Lodge, which means that even on busy days, the crowds disperse throughout the mountain so you never feel claustrophobic on the slopes. There are free shuttle buses between all three lodges, if you want to hit all the parts of the mountain, but for first timers, we recommend choosing one of the lodges for the day (more on which one we recommend below) and committing to the one spot for ease—especially with little ones.
If You Want Your Kids to Take Lessons at Mammoth: Mammoth Ski and Snowboard School is a stellar program, with patient pros who help the little ones become future shredders—they also offer adaptive lessons so those that may have a disability can still enjoy the rush and excitement of heading down the mountain. Kids group lessons start at three-years old and continue up through adult. Lessons are available at all three lodges.
Good to Know about Skiing with Kids
Kids 4 and under ski free at Mammoth Mountain with beginner slopes that are wide and groomed—ideal for beginners (no matter their age). All skiers/riders need a valid ticket to load the chairlifts and gondola, so visit a ticket window and show proof of age to get your little ones a free single or multi-day ticket.
A fantastic family-friendly option is to purchase the Beginner Ticket (available for purchase at a ticket window) and offers lift access to beginner chairlifts at Canyon Lodge (7 and 17), Main Lodge (chairlift 11), and Eagle Lodge (chairlift 15) (as opposed to the entire mountain of lifts) for a discounted rate.
Next-Level Ski Hack: Let’s be honest, getting fit for skis and gear can kind of be annoying—let alone carrying all that gear around from spot to spot. To the rescue? Ski Butlers—an incredibly personal service for ski and snowboarding equipment. Instead of dealing with lines at the ski rental spots around town or in the lodges (and delaying your time on the mountain), Ski Butlers will bring gear to your accommodations—boots, helmets, skis, poles, snowboards, goggles—everything you need for the slopes. Just provide them your stats (height, weight, etc…) and they’ll fit and adjust your gear on-the-spot. They’ll even pick up your gear too so you don’t even need to worry about returning it. Of course, renting gear the old-fashioned way absolutely works as well—and the friendly staff on the mountains will get you the gear you need as quickly as possible.
Good to Know: Another fantastic ski hack? Rather than carry your gear to and from the mountain, you can store your gear slopeside in lockers you can rent. For families, this is a godsend. Private lockers are available at Main and Canyon Lodge.
Canyon Lodge: For beginner skiers and first-timers to the mountain who are looking for the quickest and easiest access to the slopes, we recommend Canyon Lodge. From the Village (even more convenient if you stay here), you take the gondola up to Canyon Lodge where you are delivered to the base and have access to two beginner chairlifts. These runs are relatively short compared to Eagle Lodge’s beginner runs but the terrain varies and the crowds (at least when we were there) remained minimal throughout the day compared to the other lodges.
Good to Know: There is also infant care (newborn-23 months) just steps away from the Canyon Lodge gondola with half and full day options.
Eagle Lodge: For skiers and snowboarders that are looking to progress their skills from green to blue, head to Eagle Lodge. Not only does it have the longest green runs on the mountain, there’s also Eagle Playground, that, according to Mammoth, helps burgeoning shredders “gain confidence on freestyle terrain,” and include features like, “gentle rollers, small snow spines, mini-boxes, and jumps that get bigger and longer as you shred through the park.”
Good to Know: Because there is only one beginner ski lift at Eagle Lodge, it can get more crowded.
Main Lodge: The busiest of the ski areas, in addition to some green runs, beginners can also access Woolly’s Woods and Disco Playground—beginner terrain parks and special featured fun zones for kids looking to work on some new skills. Head to this lodge if you are also planning to take the scenic Panorama Gondola up to the top—dropping you off at 11,053 feet and where you can eat at Eleven53 Cafe and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. If you have a lift ticket, you can access the gondola for free. Otherwise, up to 2 kids (ages 12 & under) ride free with each paying adult.
If You Think You’re Going to Ski More Regularly: Right now, if you purchase the 2023/24 Ikon Pass, you can take advantage of the Buy Now, Ride Now Deal—meaning you can use your pass this season at Mammoth (ahem, this season, that will most likely, last until August) and other ski and snowboard destinations.
What to Do in Mammoth with Kids Who Don’t Ski or Snowboard (Or if You Don’t Want to Ski Every Day)
Andie Huber
1. Go Snowshoeing or Cross Country Skiing in Mammoth
Take the free, orange bus line to Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center (it’s only 10 minutes from the Village) for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. There are 19 miles of trails to explore with rentals, lessons, and guided tours available. Trails are dog-friendly and fairly flat so if you have a child who can trek it, this is a good spot for a beginner snowshoer.
2. Go Snow Tubing in Mammoth
Bomb down the slick snow lanes at Woolly’s Tube Park for a thrilling good time. For those 42” and smaller who aren’t yet tall enough to enjoy the ride, Woolly’s has a fun snow park area and heated deck serving up hot cocoa and adult beverages. Access to the snow park is easy—simply take the (free) red bus line here and you’ll be dropped off right at the entrance. Woolly’s Tube Park will be open through mid-April.
3. Mammoth Rock ‘N’ Bowl
Take the free red bus line or the town’s trolley (in the evening) to Mammoth Rock ‘N’ Bowl for a laid-back evening of bowling and eats from pizza to salads to poutine and tacos. Sit at a booth or have your food delivered to your bowling lane. You’ll also find a full bar and arcade, as well as a more upscale Brasserie upstairs for a date night-style dining experience.
Where to Eat in Mammoth with Kids
From fine dining to grab-and-go eats, Mammoth’s dining options are much more diverse than you’d expect from such a small town. Most spots have high chairs and kids menu (or dishes pleasing to a kiddo palate) at the ready, lots have table-side crayons and all won’t bat an eyelash if you walk in at prime dinner hour with a gaggle of children. Expect a warm welcome from restaurants eager to serve families—although like any restaurant, if you want to minimize your wait time for food, avoid the 6:30-7:30 p.m. dining hours. Below are our favorite family-friendly places to eat in Mammoth:
Best Places for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner in Mammoth
Andie Huber
1. Old New York Deli
One of our favorite spots in the Village is Old New York Deli—and, judging by the packed house we aren’t the only fans of this classic bagel spot. From sandwiches to traditional bagels and cream cheese to baked goods galore, Old New York Deli is a prime spot to fuel up before a day of adventuring.
6201 Minaret Rd. #105
Mammoth Lakes, CA Online:oldnewyork.com
2. Gomez Restaurant
Nosh on burritos, sizzling fajita plates and delicious enchiladas at this welcoming Mexican restaurant in the Village. Portions are incredibly generous and for those 21+ Gomez offers up 600+ different types of tequila and is home to the “Mammoth Margarita.”
100 Canyon Blvd.
Mammoth Lakes, CA Online:gomezs.com
3. Burgers Restaurant
The name of this restaurant sums up its specialty: burgers! Across the street from the Village, Burgers dishes out generous portions of their comfort food. Not into the traditional burger? You’ll also find a variety of equally filling eats like veggie burgers, buffalo burgers, pork baby back ribs and more.
A short walk from the Village, this comfort food dining spot also crafts its own beers since 1995. Burgers and waffle fries rule the menu but you’ll also find flatbreads and tacos to please a variety of cravings.
Located conveniently next to the Canyon gondola, this wine shop inside a cafe (or is a cafe that features a wine shop?) offers hearty breakfast options (eggs, bacon, and potatoes FTW before a big day of skiing, along with doughnuts, crepes filled with Nutella for the kids. They also have an online order-ahead system so you can beat the lines.
If you need your coffee (and a baked good or two), head to this newcomer coffee spot. Expect delicious coffee and amazing pastries and donuts at its new storefront in the heart of downtown Mammoth Lakes.
Delicious food and a laid-back atmosphere makes Toomey’s an ideal spot to grab lunch or dinner. Located in the Village, you’ll find dishes like their coconut mascarpone pancakes, fish tacos and a kids menu that includes chicken fingers, mini burger and fries and more.
There are 19 dining options on the mountain in Mammoth. As with any mountain resort, times will get busiest during lunch so plan accordingly.
Good to Know: You can skip the lines and order ahead online from select locations on and off the mountain via the Mammoth App (this must-download app also offers real-time alerts, weather reports, lift tickets, tracking for you and your friends, and more.)
Where to Stay in Mammoth with Kids
Condos and hotels abound in Mammoth Lakes, and with the town’s free public bus system you really can’t go wrong with your accommodation choice. Still, traveling with kids means convenience—and proximity to shops, dining and activities—can mean the difference between a happy tear-free afternoon and an epic toddler meltdown. Here are family-friendly places to stay in Mammoth:
Best for: Great views, hot tubs, swimming pool, and easy access to Canyon Lodge
Located in the Village, Westin Monache Resort Mammoth boasts mountain views from every room. Each room is equipped with a kitchenette, a small fridge, and a microwave. From the hotel, just walk down the steps to the gondola and get whisked up to Canyon Lodge. The Westin offers a ski valet so you don’t have to schlep your ski equipment back and forth every night. Like The Village Lodge Mammoth, the Westin offers a free shuttle bus service, which is built into the resort fee cost.
Good to Know: Not only are all the bus lines and evening trollies just steps outside of the Westin, if you’re staying at the Westin, they also offer a free shuttle service around town, including to Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center. Just give them a call when you’re ready to get picked up.
Best for: Ultimate convenience to shops and dining
For accommodations that feel more like home book a condo at The Village Lodge Mammoth. Options range from studio condos to three-bedroom deluxe condos. Condos come equipped with kitchens or kitchenettes stocked with coffee, tea, pots, pans, dishware, a full-size fridge, stove and more, which is a huge perk if you want to whip up food for your child or store leftovers. A swimming pool is open daily (even in winter!) with cribs available upon request.
The Village Lodge also offers a free shuttle service anywhere within a 5-mile radius in Mammoth and you’re steps from dining, shopping, most of the major bus lines and the Canyon Village gondola. For those kiddos obsessed with things that go, ask for a room that looks out to the gondola—your child will love watching them come and go all day long.
If being slope-side is your jam, stay at Mammoth Mountain Inn. Located just a few steps from the lifts at the Main Lodge, this spot offers both hotel-style rooms and condos, with the latter featuring kitchenettes. Nearby you’ll find the Yoddler Restaurant and Bar, Sierra General Store and Mountainside Bar and Grill. Because the Inn is slope-side, this area does get a bit quieter once the lifts close and the après crowds have dispersed.
If your kids are too young for ski school or you have babe you’re not ready to hand over to the slope-side childcare, here are the best things to do with young kids in Mammoth:
Bonus: It’s free and if it’s not crowded, you can easily wheel your stroller on and off it for an easy ride. How long is the scenic gondola ride? It’s about 10-15 minutes each way so the adventure can take as little as 30 minutes if you want to just go up and back down again. But we recommend staying at the top and exploring around and take in the stunning views before heading back to the base.
2. Ride Mammoth’s Free Buses
Mammoth is only four miles across, which means you won’t be lost for hours on the different routes. Bonus: This is also free and we found makes for great white noise if you have a baby who loves naps in the front pack.
3. Walk around the Village
Peruse Mammoth gear and locally-sourced products (a favorite is Busy Beez General Store) , load up on coffee at Vida Coffee, chocolate at Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, discover new toys at Trendy Tots, or grab a happy hour drink at one of the many kid- and dog-friendly patios (see above on great places to eat). The area is all paved and perfect for a leisurely stroller walk. Make sure to check out all the shops, dining options and events happening at the Village at Mammoth.
Good to Know: If you’re looking for a place to hang out slope-side, the area at Main Lodge behind Broadway Marketplace is emptier than most and is frequently used as a base camp for other families whose parents are trading off hitting the slopes.
4. Look Out for Woolly in the Village
You might catch him on the slopes or in one of the lodges handing out high-fives and hugs to his pint-sized fans. Also check Mammoth’s events calendar for more happenings.
Want to leave LA and be on the slopes in Mammoth in under 2.5 hours flat? Then Advanced Air will get you there. Advanced Air offers regional service to and from Burbank (BUR), Hawthorne (HHR) and Carlsbad (CLD) airports now through April 17. With Advanced Air, you’ll enjoy the convenience of a private air travel experience at a commercial airline cost with benefits such as private terminals and skipping security lines. Plus you can bring your well-behaved dog with you.
There are also daily flights from LAX that operate year-round and will deliver you to Mammoth from LAX. Of course, flying is optional—and you can absolutely drive to Mammoth from Los Angeles. If you opt to drive, it’s around 5 hours from DTLA (without traffic of course). For the full list of available flights, check out visitmammoth.com.
How to Get to Mammoth from the Bay Area
Families who flock to Tahoe know the headaches associated with I-80 traffic, especially when chain control is in effect. Flying from SFO to Mammoth? The flight time is a cool 35 minutes. If you decide to drive to Mammoth, it’s about 5-6 hours from the Bay Area.
Unlike some ski towns you might have visited, there isn’t just one central lodge or downtown area. Mammoth is fairly spread out in the sense that there is the Village, Main Lodge, Old Mammoth and Main St. The free buses or your hotel’s shuttle will get you anywhere you need to go. And, the fact that it’s a bit more spread out means areas won’t be jam-packed and overwhelming for the littles.
The Best Time to Go to Mammoth with Kids
There is never a bad time to visit Mammoth but if you want to introduce your kids to skiing, then springtime, according to the experts, is by far the best time to go. The weather is warmer, the sun is shining and it’s not as windy as it can be during the winter months—no frozen fingers and toes to slow your brood down.
Our Editor’s Cheat Sheet for a First-Timers Weekend Trip to Mammoth & Having Smoothest Ski Vacation Ever:
Fly into Mammoth (the flight is less than an hour).
Stay at The Westin (amazing location close to the Village & Canyon Lodge for awesome beginner trails, après ski hot tubs, and nearby dining).
Download the Mammoth App (best planning tool and up-to-the-minute information)
Use Ski Butlers to rent your gear (delivered and picked-up from your room).
For a non-ski day, go snowshoeing at Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center for an epic winter hike.
Don’t forget the sunblock! Bluebird days (sunny, cloudless days) means you’re that much closer to the sun—and it will show.
To learn more about Mammoth and everything this skiing destination has to offer Visit Mammoth.
This trip was paid for by Mammoth Lakes Tourism and Mammoth Mountain but all opinions expressed belong to the writer.
We’re about to teach you how to get the rest you need!
National Sleep Awareness Week. Have you heard of it? It’s possible it missed your radar, considering all the millions of things that fill your day. From morning to night (and, as parents know, sometimes all through the night), we’re always on the go. We get up, make breakfast, make lunches, get kiddos out the door, go to work, clean the house, do school pick up, help with homework, make dinner, put the kids to bed, and attempt to squeeze in a little time for ourselves. All of those things that actually make it harder to get the rest we need. So if National Sleep Awareness Week 2023 escaped your attention, it’s not really a surprise. And if you’re perpetually looking for tips and tricks to nighttime bliss, you’re not alone!
The ultimate message of the National Sleep Foundation’s Awareness Week is to emphasize how important sleep is to our emotional health, physical performance, and overall well being. It may feel like sort of a “well, duh” statement (we won’t blame you if that was your first thought), but proper rest is beyond critical, especially for us moms. We think it’s the perfect time to offer you some sleep solutions to help make the sleep you do get as effective and restful as possible. While we can’t guarantee more sleep, we can definitely help to improve the quality of the rest you get. Keep reading for some of the best sleep solutions we’ve found to make waking up much easier.
Apollo Neuroscience Wearable
Apollo Neuro
The Apollo Neuro wearable will change the sleep game for you. It was developed by neuroscientists and physicians for better sleep, relaxation, and focus. It uses gentle, non-invasive technology to send silent, soothing vibrations to the body that help you feel safe and in control. Use the Apollo Neuro app to choose a mode or create a daily schedule to help you transition throughout your day. Developed by physicians and neuroscientists, the Apollo wearable has proven outcomes across sleep quality, focus, heart rate variability, performance, and recovery, and is appropriate for both adults and children.
A soothing blend of chamomile, ashwagandha, and other calming ingredients helps you to de-stress and decompress so you can relax and fall asleep easier.
Get ready for the best sleep ever with this mattress from Nectar that's especially perfect for side-sleepers. Is that you? Check out this gone-viral addition to your bedroom!
Whether you're pregnant, nursing, or just struggling to find a comfortable sleeping position, the Boppy Total Body Pillow is a must. Your hips, lower back, and shoulders are all supported at the same time, so those pressure points are cushioned all night!
You've heard of the original 10x10 Big Blanket. Now meet some of the best sheets from the brand! Oversized top sheet so no more nighttime tugging alone or with your partner, deeeeeeep pockets to avoid midnight pop-ups, and the most breathable sateen fabrication. Comes in 3 colors.
Not only is it handy for connecting to your home's smart devices, watching movies, looking up recipes, and more, but the Google Nest Hub can also track your sleep habits (without invading your privacy!), play guided meditations and relaxing white noise, and wake you up slowly with a glowing sunrise light! You'll wonder how you lived without it.
The sleep mask that took the world by storm! With over 12,000 glowing Amazon ratings, zero eye pressure, completely adjustable design, and snag-free fabrics, it's easy to see why people can't say enough good things about it.
Protect your hair and skin with one of the best-selling (and most affordable!) satin pillowcases out there! It stays cool, helps prevent breakouts and frizz, and absorbs less dirt and oil than traditional pillowcases. Our Shopping Editor won't sleep without one!
Do more with your sleep supplement. Dual benefit formula with melatonin and FOS prebiotic fiber helps you fall asleep faster while balancing digestion. 15 minutes or less to fall asleep? We're there.
Warmies are the lavender-filled, totally microwavable, weighted and soothing plushes that are perfect for kids and adults (just ask Oprah—Warmies are one of her Favorite Things!). They come in a ton of different adorable animals so you can find the perfect bedtime buddy!
Just as soft as traditional cashmere but much more sustainable, the ettitude Vegan Cashmere Blanket is such a great luxury investment for your bed (or couch, or favorite chair...)!
If weighted blankets are more your speed, the Luna Weighted Blanket is breathable through all seasons. Weighted blankets help relieve stress by boosting serotonin and aiding in natural melatonin production. It comes in several colors and was featured on the TODAY Show!
A classic style, but updated! The JJwinks built-in bra you know and love combines with this timeless nightgown in buttery-soft fabric you'll never want to change out of!
If melatonin just isn't cutting it, Qunol Sleep Gummies are a 3-in-1 supplement blend that includes melatonin, L-Theanine, and Ashwagandha. They help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. They're gluten-free, vegan, and non-GMO, too!
A caffeine-free nightcap infused with potent sleep-supporting botanicals that help quiet the mind, calm the body, and make it easier to fall—and stay—asleep. It's a comforting step in your nighttime routine (even Oprah thinks so! Yep, Clevr Blends is another on her Favorite Things list!). Oh, and that creamy consistency comes from oat milk, so even the dairy sensitive moms out there can enjoy!
This bladeless 2-in-1 air purifier + fan is the perfect bedroom addition. It's a super powerful (but gentle) fan with included purifier so you can sleep at your best temperature and breathe easy!
Plug it in and get happy! All the benefits of the essential sunlight we need without the harmful UV rays in a completely customizable lamp that you can keep indoors.
Almost 6,800 Amazon reviews rave about the Nestl! These pillows are filled with gel-infused cooling memory foam for better ventilation and cooling technology that draws heat away from your body.
Iris&Romeo The Reset Luminous Hyaluronic Serum Spray
Iris and Romeo
Your skin absorbs product better at night (that's why nighttime skincare is so important), so seal your evening facial routine with this incredible 3-in-1 hybrid skin spray. It's your secret to dewey, bouncy skin that you can use anytime!
Get flutter-ready lashes while you sleep! Simply use the included fine-tipped brush to line your lash line every night and watch sparse lashes fill in over time. Plus, Actsyl-L is one of the most affordable lash serums on the market.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
Parents of young children all know that the most important thing for everyone to function happily is sleep. My first child didn’t sleep consistently well for the first year of her life, so throwing any kind of monkey wrench into our (finally!) successful bedtime routine was unthinkable. Yet some children are ready to make the big transition from crib to toddler bed as young as 15 months, according to co-founder and CEO of Happiest Baby, Dr. Harvey Karp. The timing largely depends upon your child’s physical skills, he says. Once your kiddo is starting to make their escape plan out of the crib you’ll know it’s time to say goodbye to it. And most kids do this by age three. So how can you do this without losing out on sleep? Here are six quick tips for making the transition.
Plan ahead.
Don’t buy a big kid bed on a whim. Take your time to figure out when the transition makes the most sense and space it apart from other big life changes, like starting a new daycare or school, moving homes, or welcoming a sibling. If you’re pregnant, Dr. Karp recommends introducing the toddler bed a few months before the baby arrives.
Certified Infant and Child Sleep Consultant and Child Behavior Consultant Renee Wasserman, P.T., M.P.H., of SleepyHead Solutions recommends calling a family meeting to talk about the importance of sleep. You might discuss where everyone is expected to sleep and why it’s good to stay in your own bed.
Set up the room for success.
Get your child excited for a “big kid bed” with a stuffed animal or fun new sheets, Wasserman says. This kind of novelty might excite your child about the upgrade. That said, toddlers generally hate change and some may do best when they keep their familiar bedding, Dr. Karp says. Stick with your child’s sleep routines and cues, like a lovey, white noise, a special bedtime story or song. And keep in mind that you now have a free-range toddler who can pop out of bed at any moment, says Dr. Karp. Be sure to childproof the room by placing soft blankets or pillows near the bed in case your tot rolls out, covering electrical outlets, and securing heavy furniture to the wall.
To prepare for all potential scenarios, Wasserman recommends role playing options that include staying in bed. Ask your child what to do if they wake up and it’s still dark in their room. “You can hug your teddy bear and go back to sleep, or you can stretch your arms and legs and go back to sleep,” she says. Similarly, Dr. Karp recommends having your child practice putting a toy or doll to bed. You can also use the new bed as a place to bond as a family. This could mean cuddling, playing with stuffed animals, reading together, taking naps, giving massages.
Stick with it.
It’s important to manage disruptions in the same exact way each time. Be calm and consistent if your child comes out of bed. Simply walk your child back and tuck them in so there is no incentive to get out again, Wasserman says. You can do this with silent empathy or you can validate your toddler’s feelings using Dr. Karp’s Fast Food Rule: “You really, really, REALLY want to sleep in Mommy’s bed,” while still setting limits, “Now it’s time to sleep in your special cozy bed, but I’ll come tuck you in nice and tight!”
You might consider installing a gate at the door to encourage staying in bed, just be sure to make it fun and not seem like a punishment. Let your toddler help decorate it with stickers and such so it can be the door to their castle, Wasserman says.
If your tot is coming out of bed early in the morning, try using an “OK to Wake” clock that will indicate when it’s morning. Remember that these clocks are only as consistent as parents are at using them, Wasserman adds.
Ditching the crib for a real bed is like taking a little leap of faith. There’s really no telling whether you’ll lose lots of sleep during the transition or if it’ll work like a dream. “Every child is different but with the right amount of preparation and lots of consistency from parents, kids can be successful within a few days, if not from the start,” Wasserman reassures.
My daughter made the transition when she was about 2.5 years old and I was heavily pregnant. We kept her old bedding, she picked out a new cuddle buddy at the toy store, and we set expectations from the very first night. Of course, not long after she settled into her new sleep space I gave birth to her baby sister and we all lost a lot of sleep once again. But we’re hoping to make up for it when they’re teenagers.
A recent study from the American Academy of Pediatrics shows that sound machines—which parents have long used to help lull babies to sleep (and keep household noise from waking them up) may actually be harmful.
The study, published in the medical journal Pediatrics, found that babies and toddlers may not recognize when noise exposure gets to be hazardous for them, and they need to rely on adults to remove them from those situations. But personal listening devices, including sound machines, are increasingly common—and they can damage kids’ hearing when they’re exposed to high levels of noise over the long term.
“What families may not realize is that children are exposed to potentially harmful noise from infancy and that the effects are cumulative over a lifetime. The AAP recommends that parents and caregivers consider that if an environment sounds too loud for an adult, it probably is too loud for a child. ‘Too loud’ can mean having to raise your voice to speak with someone just an arm’s length away,” the AAP said in a statement.
ABC News medical correspondent Dr. Darien Sutton told Good Morning America that this revelation means that millions of kids may be at risk of some form of hearing loss.
“One of the reasons why is because children have smaller ear canals. That exposes them to intensification of that higher frequency sound and [makes] them at risk for damage,” Sutton explained. “The Academy of Pediatrics recommends, for example, that nurseries have a volume maximum of around 50 decibels. That’s a volume that you and I can speak at without raising our voice. Most of these machines go above that. So if you’re going to use them, turn that volume down, place it away from the bed at least seven feet, and make sure that you give limits.”
Dr. Nilong Vyas, a pediatrician at Sleepless in NOLA and medical review expert at SleepFoundation.org also weighed in on the matter: “It’s appropriate for children to use sound machines when they are first learning to sleep through the night. However, once they achieve that milestone (as early as 4-6 months), parents should consider reducing the use of sound machines and only using them when necessary, such as during loud outdoor events like thunderstorms or fireworks,” she said. “In my view, constant sound input is not a healthy habit to encourage and may have negative consequences, but parents should not be made to feel guilty about their choices.” And, honestly, we can’t stress that last point enough. Review all of the info and guidelines and then do what works best for your family.
It’s the season of gathering, so make your friends and family feel extra welcome with these guest room essentials
The holidays are (somehow!) almost here, and that means guests are, too. Obviously, seeing our favorite people is something we look forward to all year, and making them feel comfortable in our homes is really important to us. So this time of year has us asking: is our guest room ready? Whether you immediately nodded “yes” or cringed a little, our guest room essentials guide is for you. From a full guest room overhaul to adding a few extra tweaks, we have everything your guests could possibly need to feel completely at home.
If there’s anything guests hate, it’s having to ask for something. Even if your hosts are nearest and dearest to you, it’s far more comfortable to have everything you need, right at your fingertips. Our guest room essentials guide is on top of it. We’ve made sure to include even the smallest details to make your job of holiday hosting a breeze, and to make company feel as relaxed as possible. We’re keeping your holiday full house less Family Vacation and more It’s a Wonderful Life. So, Host With the Most, are you ready?
Chunky Knit Throw
There are a few things that make a room just feel cozier: candles, soft pillows, and warm blankets. Plus, even if you're used to sleeping in a cool 68° room doesn't mean your guests are, and keeping a great collection of blankets accessible keeps everyone resting easy.
A little luxury never hurt, and a guest room is the perfect place to add some. Since guest rooms aren't used all the time, daily wear and tear isn't as much of an issue, so these pretty faux-silk window panels give your home chic hotel vibes.
Speaking of hotel vibes, a luggage rack isn't just an accessory; it's a necessity. The convenience of keeping their luggage organized and within reach, plus it folds away when not in use.
We love this sweet wall decor piece! It's such a cute way to remind your guests to make themselves at home and add some personality to your guest room.
It's so easy to forget the basics that we take for granted in our own home, but this dry-erase-ready sign is here to make sure your friends and family's devices are connected and all set to go.
No one wants to take the time they could be spending with their loved ones to do a long skincare routine every night, and these individual makeup remover towelettes offer your guests a night off from lengthy skin steps!
A surprisingly affordable way to give your guests a spa moment, these slippers fit a range of sizes and can be tossed after they head home so everyone stays hygienic!
We've lived long enough to lose our fair share of hair elastics, so having a supply when we're traveling would save the day! This little jar of elastics might just save the day for your guests.
Pretty soaps and guest bathrooms go hand-in-hand, and these whimsical soaps are perfect for the holidays with their seasonal scents and festive packaging!
Forget those drying, medicinal smelling hand sanitizer. Set a bottle of this Refresher in your guest bedroom or bathroom and let the soothing aloe and chamomile, and the spa-day scent of clary sage and lavender heal and uplift your guests!
It can be tough to fall asleep in a different bed, no matter how comfortable hosts have made it. This body oil uses Saint John's Wort, lavender, and chamomile to soothe and relax and shea butter and coconut oil moisturize. Leave a bottle on the bedside table and sweet dreams are sure to follow!
Keeping the guest room clean and tidy is easy when you have a Ruggable rug. Why? Because they're washable. Simply remove the cover and pop it in your home washing machine! Plus, they're gorgeous.
No one wants to go hunting around someone else's kitchen for something to snack on or drink. Set up a simple snack bar with individual treats and mini beverages on a side table or in a small basket! We actually might take this idea and just have a bunch of snacks in our own bedrooms.
A clock is another must, of course, but this one lets your guests customize it! There are three levels of brightness and even USB ports. Plus, it looks pretty darn cool.
Can you tell we're obsessed with charging our devices? That's only because the holidays mean lots of pictures, FaceTime, Instagram posts, and gift orders, so we have to keep that technology juiced up.
Speaking of things your guests don't want to ask for, we think this one is self-explanatory. Make sure to add one to your guest bathroom and know they appreciate it!
We don't want anyone too hot, and we don't want anyone too cold. And, if your guests are anything like us, the white noise from a fan is an absolute need.
We've noticed a distinct lack of full-length mirrors in guest rooms, and we think that's a problem. It's one of those really appreciated fixtures that make a difference.
Neutral colors are almost always a great idea. Especially in sleeping spaces, neutrals are soft and serene, and this coverlet set allows for extra blanket layers if needed.
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