Sleeping is just as important for kids as it is for adults like these recommended blankets. It has been proven by research that children who experience anxiety, ADHD, and other disorders that involve sensory processes attain better sleep with the aid of a weighted blanket.
Nonetheless, every child is likely to benefit from the effects provided by these weighted blankets. Here are just some of the benefits that kids can accrue from Weighted Blankets.
- Health and Better Habit Formation
Children who wake up from a comfortable sleep often begin the day with a refreshed body and better mood. Additionally, studies show that children who get enough sleep often end up developing healthier eating habits and have more energy than those who get less sleep.
These habits and changes will make them perform better in their class work, sports, and socialization. With continuous improvement of sleeping habits, kids will continue to develop while carrying these health habits in their adulthood.
- Anxiety Reduction
Parents with children who have anxiety often struggle with maintaining medication and providing emotional support for their children. Although these are effective, they may be effectual when it comes to maintaining a healthy sleep cycle.
Luckily, Weighted Blankets are formulated to provide comfort that kids with anxiety need. It will help them also feel safe and relaxed and this will save you a trip to the doctor.
- ADHD Aid
Studies have proven that weighted vests that provide the same effect as weighted blankets can help children with ADHD to calm their hyperactive bodies and minds. It can also help maintain the focus of children in class.
Parents who use Weighted Blankets have noted a significant improvement in their children’s attention span, thought process speed, and reaction. They have also reported lesser fidgeting and off-seat behavior.
The use of weighted blankets can provide natural aid for both children and adults with attention-related disorder. Other than schoolwork, these blankets can also help improve work-related activities and day to day tasks.
How Weighted Blankets Work
The effects of weighted blankets are connected to what is called the Deep Touch Pressure Therapy. This therapy involves applying an even amount of pressure on the body, commonly through hugging, squeezing, or firm holding.
The pressure distributed and applied on the body causes the secretion of serotonin, a hormone in the body that is related to feeling of happiness. The serotonin produced is the converted into melatonin, the hormone responsible for sleep. The conversion during naptime and nighttime can help your child to fall asleep faster and even improve the quality of their sleep.
How to Find the Right Weight?
A general rule for adults is to have a blanket that is approximately 10% of their body weight. However, for children, it is advisable to choose one that is around 15% to 20% of their current body weight. You can then increase the weight as your children reach the pre-teen and teenage stage of development. It is also advisable not to use weighted blankets for babies and toddlers in the ages 4 and below.
