Fireworks and Babies Sleep

 

Now that we're in November, we can look forward to the firework season. Coping with the bangs and vibrations of fireworks can be very difficult for some babies and young children and lots of them will suffer sleep problems as a result. Sometimes the experience of being frightened by fireworks can lead to longer term sleep problems and not just disturbance on the noisy nights.

The best way to help a young baby to cope with fireworks is to let them watch a display from the safety of your car. Let your child have a late nap and then drive to a safe vantage point where you can see fireworks. When you're parked up, sit your baby on your knee and both of you "oooh and aaah" at the display and clap and cheer at the bangs. If your child will allow it, put earmuffs or a bonnet on them to muffle the sounds.

If you decide to go to an outdoor display with your older baby or toddler, you should always go to a professional, organised display. A casual affair in someone’s back garden is simply too dangerous. Make sure that your child can actually see the fireworks, by placing them in a back pack type carrier. Once again, try to ensure that your child’s ears are covered. You will also need to check that there is some inside space for you to go to if your child doesn't like the noise. Be prepared to take them home if they are distressed to any degree.

The most important thing is your attitude to the fireworks. If you can be calm, cheerful and reassuring, then your child is more likely to feel secure about them. If they really can’t cope, however, you should take them away and hold them in your arms, speaking softly and calmly to them until the noises stop.