by Lillian Jensen

Created on: July 30, 2009

Flipping through the holiday album, you will often find pictures of sleepy-eyed half smiles on your children's faces. With the excitement of the holidays and children begging for Grandma to read "just one more story", getting your child to sleep while visiting family for the holidays can quickly become a daunting task. Here are some tips to eliminate bedtime battles during the holiday visits.

* Communicate your child's schedule to those you are staying with before the visit. Grandparents, especially those miles away, will be excited for the chance to spend extra time with their grandchildren. Let them know what they can expect from your child's schedule and ask them gently to help keep it.

* Plan sleeping arrangements before you arrive in order to ensure children have a safe and quiet place to sleep. For infants, make sure there is a crib or pack 'n play available. If not, plan on packing one.

* Encourage quiet time about an hour before bedtime. This will help your child wind down for the evening.

* Make sure your children maintain a healthy diet. Keep sugar and sweets to a minimum, just like you would at home.

* Bring familiar items. This could be anything from a stuffed animal to a favorite blanket. Having something familiar will remind your child of home and help him or her to feel comfortable.

* Plan activities around your child's nap-time schedule. Many times, families try to cram many activities into a short period of time. Make sure you also leave time for good, quality naps.

* Maintain the child's bedtime routines. If your child is used to taking a bath, having a cup or bottle of warm milk, reading a story, and then going to sleep keep that exact same routine while you are away. Kids of all ages thrive on consistency and routine. It will help remind them that it is time for sleep.

* Do not allow your child to become overtired. If you notice your child is starting to look sleepy, begin the bedtime routine, even if it is a little earlier than usual. With all of the excitement and playing, they may wear out earlier than normal. Children have an easier time falling asleep if they are put down while drowsy versus when they are overtired.

With these simple tips, your child will be able to get the sleep they need, ensuring those photographs in this year's holiday album will be bright-eyed smiles. Happy travels!

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