Try this trick to give the kid's a good night's sleep in a hotel this half term

Try this trick to give the kid's a good night's sleep in a hotel this half term The Sleep Charity and Premier Inn share expert tips to help children sleep easily in unfamiliar environments this half term, keeping their bedtime routines smooth while away from home. It can be tricky to get your little ones off to sleep when they’re away from home. Staying over in a new environment is exciting, but it’s also a change from their nightly routine, and that can make it difficult for them to drift off. So, we decided to ask the experts! Here, The Sleep Charity - in partnership with Premier Inn - have given some top bedtime tips to help kids nod off in no time, wherever they are. As a charity that works extensively with families, they know the importance of a great night’s sleep. Favourite teddy: Kids will always want something familiar in a new environment, so be sure to pack their favourite toy or blanket to help them feel comfortable and at home. Bedtime routine: Although you won’t be able to do everything like you would at home, try to include an element of your usual routine, such as reading a bedtime story. Colouring in: Fine motor skill activities help kids relax, so take advantage of the colouring packs in hotel restaurants like to get a head-start on bedtime! No TV: Screens interfere with the production of melatonin, a hormone that makes us sleepy. Switching off the TV an hour before bedtime can really help little ones nod off. Bath time: A warm bath 30 minutes before bedtime can be very effective in helping kids wind down and getting them off to sleep. Repetition: Staying away from home is exciting for kids, so you’ll need to be clear and firm with them when it’s time for bed. Try a calming phrase like ‘It’s night-time, go to sleep’ and repeat it. Dim the lights: Switch off a few lights and make use of the Premier Inn blackout curtains to help with that all-important melatonin production. Mealtimes: Plan your dinner time! Try not to eat so early that the kids are hungry by bedtime or so late that they’re uncomfortably full. Avoid stimulants: Caffeine and sugar play havoc with sleep so in the evenings, try to steer little ones away from sugary desserts and opt for fruit and water instead. *From breakfast to dinner, kids eat free at Premier Inn this autumn with a paying adult. Choose from over 600 hotel locations across the UK. Little ones can enjoy delicious and nutritious dishes like our 10-Veg Tomato Pasta and Oven Baked Poppin’ Chicken – and sweet treats like a Fresh Fruit Salad, Pancakes and more. Valid at selected Premier Inn restaurants until 1st November, for participating restaurants see HERE