It is important to get plenty of rest in order to stay healthy and fit. We all know this, but it is much easier to talk about than it is to put into practice. This is especially true when we have a lot going on like now, during the holidays.
So, what can we do to make sure we and our family members are getting enough rest? We can try to make it fun. Most kids would and some grown ups would much rather play than rest. However, rest doesn’t always have to mean sleeping more hours or taking a nap. It can also involve quiet restful activities, such as piling up pillows and blankets in the living to lie down and watch a movie or read to each other. Our children love having our attention, so they will likely enjoy activities like these when the whole family participates.
Snuggling on the couch to talk or watch a favorite show during the day can also add a few quiet moments. It is also a good idea to make a habit of “shutting down” as the evening wears on. Going from busy activities to quiet ones, helps set the stage for bedtime and restful sleep. Play a quiet board game with the kids instead of them chasing each other around or watching a stimulating program or playing a video game.
You can have kids sit quietly and write letters to relatives, letters to Santa, or make out their Christmas lists. They can draw or color instead of doing something more active. While you may not have much luck with actually getting an active child to sleep at nap time, you may very well be able to squeeze in more quiet, restful moments, if you can make it fun. You’ll all feel more refreshed.
Give it a try!