Can kids use weighted blankets?

Both children and adults can find the snug pressure of a weighted blanket to be soothing, and to create a sense of calm and stillness.

Does your child have trouble going to sleep or staying asleep? In addition to being incredibly important for a child's health and development, sleep (or lack thereof) can have a huge impact on the whole family! Whether this is caused by separation anxiety, nightmares, or other problems, a weighted blanket may help.

The weight of the blanket can help your child’s anxiety by triggering their nervous system to lower their heart rate and slow their breathing. It can also prevent tossing and turning, thereby helping your child stay still and go to sleep more quickly. Studies have shown the weight of the blanket may reduce fidgeting and squirming at bedtime, which can be especially helpful to children with ADHD.

Weighted blankets can also help with focus and mental clarity during the day. They have also long been used to help children with autism, who may not be able to focus during the day or sleep at night due to noise disruption.

Weighted blankets should never be used on infants or small children under the age of four. For older children, you should provide adult supervision, especially at first; and always be sure that the child is strong enough to remove the weighted blanket if needed. You should always ensure that your child does not sleep with the weighted blanket over their face. When in doubt, speak with your child's pediatrician, especially if your child suffers from skin allergies, blood circulation issues, epilepsy, or heart or breathing problems.