How to help jet-lagged kids
This previous post explains how jet lag affects our bodies. Don’t forget to look after yourself so you’re able to care for your kids to the best of your jet lagged ability.
Jet lag in older children
Similar to how to deal with jet lag in toddlers, plenty of daylight, fresh air and lots of physical activity is the best way to deal with jet lag, whatever the age.
Full, active days to hopefully tire your child as much as possible during daylight hours are in order. Explore your local area and find a park or playground for them to run around in.
Expect some sleeplessness and early starts, but a few days in, you’ll find your child will have at least one marathon sleep.
This, in my experience, is guaranteed to coincide with the morning that visitors/removal company/random installers are due to arrive. Whatever inconvenience is due a few days after your arrival, that will be the morning your child catches up on lost sleep…
Jet lag in teenagers
Staying in bed all day and awake all night?
Grumpy and uncommunicative?
How would you notice if this is jet lag or just normal teen behaviour?
Just let them get on with it while you deal with yourself! But do make sure there are plenty of healthy snacks available for those inevitable ‘midnight’ snack-attacks.
It will all work out fine in the end, especially when they have to go to school.
