We've been using a Sleep Balm to help the children settle and go to sleep at night. Otto (9 months) never liked the bath and bed routine, he finds it too stimulating. Otis (7 years) always needs time to the end of the day to process things, to clear his mind. Once the children are in bed I apply a little sleep balm on their pulse points and often on the bottom of their feet using a soft circular motion. It's such a lovely way to connect with them before they fall asleep. 

We've been using handmade but purchased Sleep Balm, I knew it was something that I could make myself. It was time to give it a go! 

There are a lot of recipes for Sleep Balm but I wanted one with Lavender and Chamomile that wasn't too complicated. Both Lavender and Chamomile are listed as oils safe to use on children from six months and are soothing and calming. Lavender and Chamomile also work well together.

For our homemade, all natural sleep balm for children we use: 

〉1 cup of Coconut Oil

〉 ½ cup of Beeswax (I've used pellets)

〉6 drops of Lavender Essential Oil

〉6 drops of Chamomile Essential Oil

To make the balm:

1. Melt the Coconut Oil and Beeswax.
2. Mix the melted Coconut Oil and Beeswax together. 
3. Add the Essential Oils to the Coconut Oil and Beeswax mixture and stir. 
4. Pour the mixture into tins with lids and allow to cool. 
5. Label and date the tins.

I used six of these little tins. The balm should last 12 months but I am certain we will use ours all up by then. These little tins of Sleep Balm would be a thoughtful gift for family and friends and are completely suitable for adults too. 

Why it works:

• Qualities of the essential oils - Lavender and Chamomile promote calm and rest. 
• Creates rhythm and ritual - children often respond well to external sleep cues and rhythm and rituals can help children feel safe, loved and secure.
• Makes an emotional and physical connection - touch from a loved one can alone be soothing, calming and healing. 
• Is a soothing and caring practice - taking time for children shows them that we love and appreciate them. 

When using it for the first time, I applied a very small amount on Otto's foot and waited 48 hours to see if there was any reaction. This recipe can be halved and Coconut oil can be substituted with other known carrier oils. 

If you would like the Sleep Balm without the DIY I can recommend Badger Night Night Balm (Australia here) which been designed specifically for children (from six months). If you are tempted to increase the essential oils in this recipe keep in mind the recommended dilution ratio for children under two is .25% (1 drop per 4 teaspoons carrier oil).