FREE PHONE HOTLINE LETS KIDS TALK TO DISNEY CHARACTERS AT BEDTIME

Promoting the launch of the new "Sleep Shop" product lineup at Disney Store and shopDisney, throughout the month of August families can add a bit of Disney magic to their children's bedtime routine.  Until August 31, 2018, parents in the United States & Canada can call the toll-free number 1-877-7-MICKEY, to let kids listen to one of five special getting ready for bed messages from either Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck or Goofy. I know from personal experience that at times getting children to go to bed can be an exhausting experience for parents and getting some free help from the Mickey and his Mouseketeers is a nice way to help get the whole family tucked in for the night with smiles on their faces.

Disney Store and shopDisney have also partnered with Lauren Olson, a certified pediatric sleep coach and founder of Sleep and the City, a consulting service that provides parents with guidance regarding children that are having troublesome sleep issues.   Lauren shared with us some items within the "Sleep Shop" collection she adores for helping get kids comfortable with going to bed like comfy pjs, sleep reward charts and light up toys with Disney Princess, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars character themes to them.  She also shared with a geek daddy some of her top tips for handling common childhood sleeping problems:

Early Wake Up 

This is common! If your child is waking up every morning before 6am, it’s time to invest in a black out shades and a light or clock that illuminates when it’s time to get out of bed in the morning.

Won’t Go to Sleep 

If your child suddenly refuses to fall asleep on their own or is waking up in the middle of the night, consider introducing a “friend” which is only offered a sleepy time. This can be a blanket or favorite stuffed animal, like the new Cuddleez! This oversized plush can even double as a pillow for toddlers when traveling.

Be Consistent 

Consistency is key. Decide on a consistent, yet flexible schedule that works for your life and stick to it as best possible.

Scared at Night 

If your child tells you they are scared at night, introduce a “nighttime friend" that is only offered at bed time, and encourage your child to hold, squeeze or sing to their friend should they wake worried at night.

The “Sleep Shop” features a new assortment of kids sleep items from across Disney, Pixar, Star Wars and Marvel brands with prices ranging from $14.95 - $29.95. These items will be exclusive to Disney Store locations and shopDisney.com. To check out the full array of "Sleep Shop" offerings and see Lauren Olson's full tips, visit www.shopDisney.com/sleep-shop.