Sometimes the most honest New Year’s goal isn’t about diets, gyms or vision boards - it’s simply “All I really want is an uninterrupted night of sleep.” For exhausted parents, this wish feels bigger than any fresh-start challenge. It’s the kind of dream that comes with dark circles, cold coffee and a hopeful heart. Sleep deprivation can make even the most ordinary day feel like a mountain climb. That’s why so many parents are ditching unrealistic resolutions and focusing on what they truly need: rest, recovery and the sanity that comes with solid sleep. After all, an uninterrupted night of sleep might just change everything, writes Jessica Baxter, Real Home Truths.
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Today is my first day back at the office and I have to admit that there is no sign of the holiday blues just yet. Let’s face it, holidays with kids are tough. Gone are the days of lazing by the pool with a cocktail in hand and enjoying an afternoon siesta before a night out.
Now, the festive break is filled with play dates, trips to the waterslides (surrounded by throngs of other kids, I might add), and endless games of dress up.
Thankfully, it’s summer, and my kids are water babies, so I was able to position myself poolside for much of the time, but the cold mojito has been replaced by the kids’ juice boxes, and there is very limited opportunity to laze around on the lounger.
With two kids under five, I find myself on lifeguard duty, constantly worried if their life jackets actually work (although anyone who has seen me swim will know that I am not their best bet in the event of a swimming-related emergency).
For me, the best part of a holiday is the opportunity to rest, which is quite frankly almost impossible with kids. What is a vacation without an afternoon siesta? Determined not to give this up, I insisted on a nap every day – for the kids, I mean. It did, of course, involve a lot of bribery (you can have an ice cream when you wake up) and marathon park sessions to tire them out sufficiently, but it worked.
Turns out the advice you’re given as new parents to sleep when your child sleeps still applies in the toddler years.
“For me, the best part of a holiday is the opportunity to rest, which is quite frankly almost impossible with kids.”
As for the “nights out”, I’ve pretty much accepted these are limited to special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays, but my husband and I did attempt one date night during the holidays. He booked us a table at a really nice restaurant and a night at a hotel.
The plan was for the kids to sleep at granny’s so we could enjoy a little freedom (and romance), although if I’m honest, the hotel stay was less about a night of naughty shenanigans and more an opportunity to get eight full hours of uninterrupted sleep!
Well, dinner was great and allowed for some one-on-one time; I’m happy to report we can still hold an adult conversation. However, just as we arrived back at the hotel, we got the call that the kids want mum and dad. I can’t say we were all that surprised.
In fact, we had booked interleading rooms just in case. Note to new parents – proper preparation is key to survival!
So, as is the case at home, my son slept with me in the king-size bed while my hubby was relegated to the B field: the twin bedroom with my daughter.
While it wasn’t quite the night we had planned, I will say it was just as special, maybe even more so – it was after all our kids’ first hotel experience and watching them look at everything with such excitement and wonder, from the key card to the hairdryer in the bathroom (that was a big hit), made forgoing sleep worth it.
But, with all that said, I am still in pursuit of a full night’s sleep, and so my goal for the year ahead is to get my kids comfortable with the idea of sleeping over at granny… oh, the freedom that will bring!
ALSO READ: How to really make your New Year’s resolutions stick this year
BabyYumYum FAQ’s: New Year’s Resolution: All I Want Is an Uninterrupted Night of Sleep
Why is uninterrupted sleep so hard for parents?
Night wakings from babies or toddlers, stress, work pressure and mental load make it difficult for parents to get long stretches of sleep.
Is it normal to crave just one full night of rest?
Absolutely. Many parents run on chronic sleep deprivation and long for restorative rest.
What small changes can help me sleep better?
Create a calm bedtime routine, reduce screen use before bed, keep your room cool and dark and avoid caffeine later in the day.
How can I improve my child’s sleep so I can sleep too?
Consistent routines, earlier bedtimes, predictable naps, and reducing overtiredness can help. Some families benefit from gentle sleep-training methods.
Should partners share night duties?
Yes. Sharing night responsibilities helps prevent burnout and gives both parents a chance to recover.
What if I feel mentally drained even when I sleep?
Stress, postpartum anxiety, or mental overload can disrupt sleep. Mindfulness techniques, journalling, and talking to a professional can help.
Is it okay to nap during the day?
Yes. Short naps (20–30 minutes) can boost energy without disrupting night sleep.
Why does my mind race at night?
Parents often carry a heavy mental load, remembering tasks, worries and responsibilities. A “brain dump” before bed can help clear your mind.
Should I prioritise self-care if I’m exhausted?
Yes. Being well-rested improves your mood, patience, productivity and parenting quality.
What if I’ve forgotten what good sleep feels like?
You’re not alone. Chronic sleep deprivation is common among parents. With consistent habits and support, sleep can improve gradually.
When should I see a doctor?
If insomnia persists for weeks, or you feel extremely anxious, hopeless, or unable to function, seek professional help.
How can I start the new year with healthier sleep habits?
Set realistic goals like earlier bedtimes, shared routines, reducing late-night scrolling and carving out small pockets of rest throughout the week.
TAKE A LOOK AT: The importance of sleep for parents and how to get it!
Disclaimer: This information provides general wellbeing support and does not replace medical guidance. If you’re struggling with persistent insomnia, anxiety or exhaustion, consult a healthcare provider.
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