Weighted blankets are believed to stimulate production of “happiness” hormones like dopamine and serotonin and reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. This helps the user enter a more relaxed state, which is conducive to sleep. However, these health claims are the subject of ongoing research. Henderson recommends that people with a medical condition or concerns about using a weighted blanket consult a medical professional before investing. And young children should be supervised when using a weighted blanket. How to wash a weighted blanket Size: 120 × 90cm | Weight: 2kg or 3kg | Filling: polyester wadding and glass beads | Removable cover: No Reasons to buy

It’s important to talk to your childs doctor or health professional before using a weighted blanket to ensure you recieve the correct advice for your situation. The NHS offers more advice on how they can be safely used for children. How heavy or big should a weighted blanket be for kids? Henderson recommends practising deep belly breathing when using a weighted blanket, to help activate our “rest and digest” response. “The mind’s focus is then on the sensation of the blanket and the breath, not any thoughts that had been racing beforehand, meaning it can also be used as a mindfulness tool when used in this way,” she explains. What is the science behind weighted blankets? Yes, but not for babies or toddlers. Weighted blankets are fine for children over three years of age and you should only use the recommended weight for your child (see below) as they need to be able to easily remove the blanket themselves if they get too hot. Suggest using the blanket during calm times. Wrap it around them while you read to them or while they are quietly playing.Sarah Silverman, Psy.D., a licensed psychologist and holistic sleep wellness consultant who treats patients in New York and Florida. There are a variety of fabrics to choose from, all of which provide a different sleeping experience. Think about your child’s favourite textures. If they prefer cotton to flannel, for instance, choose the texture that they enjoy most. Also, consider the breathability of the material. If your child gets hot in the night, you will want to select a more breathable fabric like cotton. Something we especially liked about the Baloo weighted comforter is its 100 per cent cotton exterior and interior and that it’s made with only natural and chemical-free materials. The result is a breathable, super-soft blanket that helps you adapt to changing temperatures for a comfortable night’s sleep. The weight of the blanket is designed to mimic a therapeutic technique called deep pressure stimulation. This technique uses hands-on pressure in the form of squeezing or holding to calm the nervous system. A weighted blanket essentially mimics the relaxing feeling of a firm, warm hug. Textures can play a big part in soothing our senses, which is why we liked the TheaWellbeing blyss weighted blanket. The velvety cover included in the box feels wonderful next to skin, and we often found ourselves running our hands along the dimpled detail throughout. Although you’re unlikely to use the weighted blanket without the cover, it is also beautifully smooth and silky.

So that it’s weighted where it matters, the glass beads are focused in the centre of the blanket rather than on the edges. Our tester wasn’t sure if this would mean that the weight would cover not all of their body, but the area is generously large enough to do the job. Getting your child used to their new weighted blanket can be difficult. Some children might not initially like the way it feels. Of course, if your child is uncomfortable or stressed, never force them to use the blanket. But, if they need a little encouragement, here are some tips on how to introduce the blanket.Make sure they feel safe under the blanket. Ensure them that you are there with them the first few times they use it.

Design is an important factor to consider. You will want your child to enjoy using their blanket, so make sure they like the way it looks. If they have a favourite movie character or design, try to find a weighted blanket with that image printed on it. You could even try online shopping with them and let them choose their favourite available design. What Are The Health Benefits Of Weighted Blankets? We recommend talking to your doctor before using a weighted blanket if you live with one of the following:As smooth as velvet and just as soothing, the Kuddly Weighted Blanket is beautifully soft and contains ultra-silent glass sand beads, which stay quiet when they move to form and hug your body.

My daughter has one as she is very anxious right now and wasn't sleeping. It's definitely helped.” Circleorsquare Our verdict Weighted blankets use gentle pressure to promote a sense of calm and relaxation and reduce feelings of anxiety. “The pressure of the weight stimulation from a weighted blanket can have a soothing, calming effect on the body, which is then relayed to the mind through the power of the mind-body connection,” says Nichola Henderson, a holistic life, self-development coach and wellness specialist.

If your budget doesn’t quite stretch that far, the TheaWellbeing blyss weighted blanket with cover is a fantastic value for money buy. For children, we love the Snoozzzy dinosaur weighted blanket. Most weighted blankets are designed for use by one person or, even if it’s a particularly big one, they usually won’t cover the whole bed. But the Baloo weighted comforter is designed to be large enough for sharing, snuggling and sleeping soundly under. You’re even likely to find one that will cover your entire bed, so long as it’s no bigger than a superking. What we love: The various adorable designs that are perfect for kids and the smaller sizes make this blanket the perfect choice. If you find a blanket that is around the same length and size as your child, aim for 10% of their body weight plus one or two pounds. If you select a larger blanket (one that covers the entire bed) you will want to add 1-2 pounds on top of the 10%.