A parent’s role in a baby’s life is significant because they are the ones who help him learn all the things about the world and the ones who make sure he feels loved and cared for. Despite such a great responsibility, parents need not stay within the limits of their power. In some cases, turning to nature’s power for help may be beneficial.
Scheduling an outdoor nap for their little one is a surprisingly uncommon practice among parents, even though it has a lot of benefits. Outdoor snoozes can be deeper and longer than they might be in a nursery. It offers benefits that continue even after an infant wakes up.
In Norway and most other Scandinavian countries, it is normal for children to nap outdoors. According to research, outdoor sleeping promotes better daytime sleeping and increases sleep duration.
Here are some benefits of outdoor sleep times for children:
Better sleep. The cold air helps babies and toddlers sleep better, deeper, and longer. It also helps them fall asleep easier.
Less stress and illness. Sleeping outdoors would lead to children spending less time in dry, recycled air, which allows the flu, virus, and common colds to quickly spread among children.
Improved learning. Children who sleep better are more rested and can benefit from improved alertness and cognitive skills.
Calmer babies. By spending more time with nature, looking at its beauty and wonders, and breathing fresh air, children who sleep outdoors can benefit from nature’s calming effect.
Healthy habits. By spending more time outdoors from a young age, children can be used to this habit early in their lives which can help them become healthier adults.
Introducing Outdoor Sleep Times
Sleeping outside is possible if your child is not lying in the sun and the temperature does not drop below -5°C. You should also dress your baby warmly enough, put your baby in a weatherproof buggy or stroller, and find a suitable space for sleeping. A quiet place should be designated for rest and sleep, away from interactive groups. There are excellent options under a large tree, on grass, or on a veranda.
And just as you would with indoor sleeping, ensure your outdoor nap procedures follow the regulations regarding sleep in early childhood settings, such as regular monitoring of temperature, breathing, and length of sleep. Given that the children are outdoors and not contained, children must be supervised.
You should also be mindful of exceptions. If your child is recently ill or doesn’t want to sleep outside, don’t force them.
Overall, spending more time outdoors with your baby is a good habit, which they may inherit from you as they get older. Consider the potential positive effects on the entire family’s well-being. An outdoor nap gives parents time for themselves. Such well-earned breaks help adults clear their heads and, in turn, become stronger, more competent parents. Most importantly, you do what feels good and right so that your child feels safe and secure.