Blog Post

Is your child ready for their first sleepover?

Aug 20, 2018

There is no magic age at which a sleepover is appropriate. Generally speaking, the child has to be old enough to go to sleep on his/her own. This means that they don’t need a long, specific ritual from a parent in order to catch some Zzzz’s. As a rule of thumb, if your child falls into one of the following categories of nighttime distress, we recommend a bit more time before sending them to a friend’s house for a sleepover.

  • a lot of anxieties about sleep
  • afraid of the dark
  • significant separation anxiety
  • nighttime bedwetting

Sometimes, however, you just have to give it a try in order to find out whether your child is ready or not. Your child may appear ready and then panic when the time comes to part ways for the evening. On the other hand, you may think your child won’t last 10 minutes but they stick it out and enjoy the experience.

So, to help parents, here are our Top 5 Tips to see if your child is ready for their first sleepover.

  1. Start with a “Trial Run” - Pick a family member (a cousin, for example), or close family friend whom your child already knows well.
  2. Practice - A good way to practice is to do it together. For example, when vacationing with extended family or with friends, allow your child to share a room with another to see if they can even sleep in the same room as someone with whom they’d rather play than sleep.
  3. Talk about it ahead of time - It is important to prepare your child for what to expect, potential difficulties, and how to handle them. Read a book about sleepovers (there are a lot out there) to show your child that it is okay to be nervous and how to ask for help. Talk about who they can go to at their friend’s house if they are scared. Discuss a plan for what happens if they wake up in the middle of the night afraid. Let the parent of the other child know the plan.
  4. Don’t set your expectations too high - Your child may do just fine, but don’t be surprised if you need to pick them up early or if they come home tired and cranky. Don’t plan a lot for the next day to allow them to recuperate.
  5. Praise success - Even if your child isn’t as successful as you may have expected or hoped, praise them for any success they had and reassure them that it takes practice and time, but that you will help them get there.

Image of mother and children meditating on their living room sofa.

Finding Calm: A Breathwork and Mindfulness Program for the Whole Family

07 May, 2024
Incorporating mindfulness and relaxation techniques into your daily routine can significantly improve the mental and physical well-being of children, teens, and parents alike. By following this breathwork and mindfulness program, families can achieve a state of calm and relaxation, reducing stress and enhancing overall quality of life. Remember, consistency is key, and the more you practice, the greater the benefits you'll experience.
Image of stressed couple sitting on a park bench.

Managing Stress for a Healthier and Happier Life

01 Apr, 2024
Managing stress is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle. Recognizing the signs of stress, building resilience, and utilizing available resources can significantly improve mental and physical well-being. As we observe National Stress Awareness Month, let’s take the opportunity to prioritize our health, explore effective stress management strategies, and support each other in leading happier, healthier lives.
Image of adolescents at the gym exercising together.

The Pivotal Role of Physical Fitness in Adolescent Health

27 Mar, 2024
By supporting and encouraging our teens to embrace an active lifestyle, we're not just aiding them in maintaining their physical health; we're empowering them with the tools to face life's challenges with a robust and resilient mindset.
Image of redhead girl reading a book.

Story Time Magic: Best Books for Young Readers

15 Mar, 2024
Great children's books not only provide entertainment but also open doors to new worlds, helping children develop empathy, understanding, and a lifelong love for reading.
Image of child's foot and footprint on a piece of paper.

Celebrating Milestones: Ideas for Marking Your Child’s Growth and Achievements

27 Feb, 2024
Remember, the most important aspect of celebrating milestones is to create a sense of love, accomplishment, and family. Whatever method you choose, it’s these feelings that will linger in your child’s memory the most.
Image of two children gardening with their grandparent.

My First Garden: Gardening Projects for Kids

15 Feb, 2024
Gardening projects offer endless opportunities for learning, growth, and fun. They teach responsibility, patience, and the joy of nurturing life.
Image of two children doing arts and crafts indoors.

Rainy Day Activities: Keeping Kids Entertained Indoors

23 Jan, 2024
Rainy days don't have to be boring. With a little creativity, they can provide opportunities for fun, learning, and making memories.
Image of child sleeping in bed.

Understanding and Managing Pediatric Sleep Disorders

17 Jan, 2024
Sleep is a complex process, and when disorders arise, they can be challenging for both the child and the family. However, by understanding the common sleep disorders, recognizing the signs, and taking proactive steps towards management, these issues can be effectively addressed.
Red and white Christmas ornament.

Embracing the Warmth of Family and Friends During the Holidays

20 Dec, 2023
Whether it's decorating the Christmas tree together, preparing a family meal, or simply sitting by the fire sharing old tales, these moments are what truly make the holiday season special.
Image of infant with finger in mouth smiling.

Ensuring Proper Dental Hygiene from the Start: A Parent's Guide

11 Dec, 2023
When it comes to our little ones, we often focus intently on their nutrition, sleep, and physical health, but dental hygiene is a crucial aspect of their overall well-being that sometimes gets overlooked.
More Posts
Share by: