Weighted blankets are becoming quite the trend, with many families discovering that their kids are sleeping more soundly under a bit of extra weight. As someone who deals with anxiety and restless nights, I’m seriously thinking about getting one for myself.
What Are Weighted Blankets?
If you’re not familiar with weighted blankets, let me break it down. These aren’t your average throws—they typically weigh between 15 to 25 pounds and are often filled with those squishy beads like the ones found in Beanie Babies. Remember those adorable toys from the 90s? Now, picture having one of those cozy buddies wrapped around you while you sleep.
The Benefits of Weighted Blankets
While some folks might feel a bit trapped by the weight, for many, it brings a sense of calm and comfort. Initially, weighted blankets were designed for those with sensory processing challenges, anxiety, depression, and autism. However, they’re now helping even the most restless kiddos in the house who seem to pop up at night, peering at you like a mini Michael Myers asking for water.
I had a moment of nostalgia when I remembered how, years ago, during my youngest daughter’s NICU stay, the nurses would place a glove filled with beads on her chest. It helped her sleep better, and now it clicks that this was a precursor to the idea of weighted blankets for kids.
Using a weighted blanket feels similar to being hugged to sleep. For the first few years of my daughter’s life, the only way I could get her settled was by snuggling up beside her, with my arm draped over her. She would grip my hand, pulling my arm down snugly over her. Sneaking away after she fell asleep felt like a mission impossible!
Don’t get me wrong; I loved those cuddle sessions, but I can’t help but wonder if a weighted blanket might have helped her fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. According to Jamie Carter, the founder of CozyWraps, the “added pressure helps all kids, especially those with autism and sensory issues.” He also mentioned that the extra weight triggers the release of feel-good neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which can improve mood and promote relaxation.
Safety Considerations
However, there’s always a flip side to consider. There have been some safety concerns, particularly for younger children. In 2008, a tragic incident involving a 9-year-old boy with autism led to recommendations for stricter guidelines around weighted blanket use, emphasizing that children should only use blankets designed for their age and size.
Cost and Value
Weighted blankets can range from around $60 to $175, with some brands even reaching up to $300. As a parent, getting all three of my kids to sleep through the night feels like a cosmic alignment of the stars—something I desperately crave! When they don’t sleep well, the whole day can turn into a chaotic disaster. So, if weighted blankets can help ease the nighttime struggle, they might just be worth their weight in gold.
Additional Resources
If you’re interested in exploring more about at-home insemination, you might want to check out Make A Mom, which offers innovative options like re-usable kits. Their how it works page provides a detailed look into the process. Plus, you can connect with others in the journey through the free Make A Mom Facebook group. For those considering at-home insemination, the Cryobaby home intracervical insemination syringe kit combo is definitely worth a look, as well as the Cryobaby at-home insemination kit that’s known for its quality. For more information on pregnancy and related topics, the World Health Organization is a fantastic resource.
Conclusion
In summary, weighted blankets can provide comfort and improve sleep for many, especially children experiencing anxiety or sensory issues. While there are safety considerations to keep in mind, they could be a valuable addition to your nighttime routine.
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