Quality sleep plays a vital role in the healthy growth of kids. However, children experience sleep problems and insomnia due to various reasons. Weighted Blankets for Kids are designed to promote warmth and the sensual touch to children so that they fall asleep naturally.

Backed with a scientific principle called Deep Touch Pressure, weight blankets for kids are drawing attention from doctors and mothers for their benefits. Here we talk about the benefits of weighted blankets for kids. Before we dig into that, let us understand what weighted blankets are and how to choose them.

What are weighted blankets?

Weighted blankets are blankets designed for children to induce sleep naturally. They comprise two layers of fabric and filler material in between the layers. Generally, balls made of food-grade plastic, rice, glass, high-quality beads, etc. are used between the layers.

The intention of using such a filler medium is to provide natural pressure on the baby so it offers a calming effect on children.

Which children should use weighted blankets?

Weighted blankets are suggested for children of age 2 and above. For younger children, it is recommended to take the opinion of pediatricians. Children who suffer from sleep lack due to:

• Change in living conditions (moving to a new house, area, etc.)

• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

• Autism spectrum disorder

• Trauma

• Sensory processing disorder

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder

Weighted blankets benefits

The benefits of weighted blankets for children are many.

Natural sleep aid

Weighted blankets provide natural pressure on the children’s body required to produce serotonin – the sleep hormone. It triggers the production of melatonin, another sleep hormone. As a combined result, children fall asleep much naturally.

Reduces tantrums

Children who suffer from sleeplessness due to anxiety or hyperactivity display tantrums more when compared to children who sleep better. Weighted blankets promote quality sleep, and thus they help children to calm down and stay focused.

Promotes calmness

Generally, children with ADHD or autism display overexcitement and attention span issues. Weighted blankets offer stimulation to the calming hormones and help calm down such children. They also aid in developing their attention span and focus.

Reduces anxiety and stress

Weighted blankets offer deep touch pressure on children. According to many studies, this deep touch mechanism stimulated by weighted blankets delivers a sense of warmth by triggering mood-lifting and sleep-inducing neurotransmitters. Thus, weighted blankets help to reduce anxiety and stress levels in children.

Other benefits of weighted blankets

Weighted blankets benefit adults too. Doctors recommend them for adults suffering from insomnia and stress-related disorders. They have also been effective on the elderly who suffer from Alzheimer’s, post-cancer side effects, Parkinson’s, and anxiety.

Tips to use weighted blankets

Weighted blankets for kids are available in various fabrics. Choose the one that suits your local climate and the body nature of your child. For instance, in children who generally feel warm, choose a weighted blanket made of breathable fabric. Similarly, if you live in chilly areas, choose a warm weighted blanket that your child will love to cuddle in.

• Introduce weighted blankets slowly and naturally to your child. The pressure touch may also feel new to your child in the beginning. Hence, remember to make a gradual transition.

• Check if the manufacturer adheres to kid safety regulations and provides a warranty for the product.

• Weighted blankets arrive in various weights. Ideally, the blanket you choose for your kids should be around 10-11% of their body weight.

• The pressure distribution of the blanket depends on the filler quality and design. Good blankets with quality fillers spread the pressure uniformly all over your child’s body. Hence, check the reviews from trusted forums about the filler quality.

• Kids weighted blankets are also available in various ranges – wearable, sleep only, etc. Choose one depending on the daily needs of your kid.

Conclusion

Kids weighted blankets help to promote quality sleep in children suffering from sleep troubles. Always remember to choose the right one depending on the age and weight of your kid. It is also equally important to make a slow introduction with the blanket to your child. Consider the kid’s feedback about how comfortable they are feeling with the blanket. Before using weighted blankets for kids below 2 years, please consider your pediatrician’s advice.