As parents, we want the absolute best for our kids. We know how critical it is that they get a good night’s sleep, but we also know it can sometimes be a struggle to get our kids to calm down and in their comfy bed for the night. One of the best ways to help our kids settle down is something parents have been doing for generations–reading a good book together.
According to a study from the University of Sussex in the United Kingdom, reading is the best way to relax–even more so than going for a walk, listening to music, or sipping on some warm milk. The study found that just six minutes of reading can be enough to reduce our stress level by more than two thirds. Researchers observed participants’ heart rate slow down and a reduction in muscle tension.
Why Reading Is So Calming
Psychologists believe that reading helps reduce stress so effectively because our brain has to concentrate on the words on the paper, therefore creating a distraction from the constant chatter in our mind. Books help our kids escape from the present moment into a literary world of imagination that intrigues them and captures all of their focus.
According to the experts who conducted the study, it really doesn’t matter what type of book your children read. The benefit comes from them getting engrossed in the story to escape their worries. When we read, we essentially enter an altered state of consciousness, or what is often referred to as “flow” like when artists get caught up in their projects.
However, we highly suggest that your kids read books about happiness before they doze off at bedtime. Check out our awesome recommendations.
How To Connect Reading To Your Child’s Bedtime Routine
Reading in bed should be fun and a chance for your kids to unwind at night. It’s important to create a special space for them to get cozy and enjoy a good book. Make sure you use a low level reading light so their eyes start to adjust to the darker environment early on. Choose a mattress and bedding that are really comfortable so they are tucked in to feel safe and secure. Be sure to shut down computers, video games, televisions, and other electronic gadgets at least 30 minutes before bedtime. More and more studies are finding that technology is affecting children’s sleep in a number of ways, such as the blue light from screens interfering with the sleeping hormone melatonin. This also means that reading on an electronic device is a big no-no! Finally, surround your children with precious objects for them to cuddle with, such as a stuffed animal, blanket, or pillow.
We just discovered the cutest pillow that will fit all of these needs by linking relaxation, reading, and bedtime. These book pocket pillow covers sold on Etsy by JustSewPerfectGifts are the perfect way to bring reading in bed to your children. Created by a mom whose daughter is in a book club and got carried away when it was their time to host when she sewed these pillows for all the kids, these unique gifts make reading so attractive and convenient to readers of all ages.
The pocket makes it easy for you to neatly store books right in the pillow. Each pocket pillow cover is hand made; the pocket is lined and double-stitched. It also has a handle so your kids can carry the pillow easily to another room in your house or to a sleepover at a grandparent’s or friend’s house. The covers come in a variety of themes to suit any type of reader: Star Wars, Harry Potter, The Cat In The Hat, sports, animals, emojis, etc. She will even take custom orders. (Pillow inserts sold separately.)
Order Now
Spread the joy of reading and a good night’s sleep by grabbing one of these book pocket pillow covers when you need a birthday or holiday gift for a friend or loved one. They are also a wonderful idea for sleep away camp.
Get a 10% discount on your order by using the coupon HAPPYSCIENCEMOM. Click here to order now.
Do your children enjoy reading before bedtime?
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