The Importance of Sleep and Routine for Young Children
Sleep problems in children are often very different from the sleep troubles that beset grownups. Reports have indicated that children who do not get enough sleep at night will frequently doze off in class, will not have the vigor to exercise and will experience feelings of depression. Nightmares, bedwetting and sleepwalking are common symptoms of sleep problems in children, so parents should know how to tackle these issues. If you are concerned about your youngsters sleeping habits, then read on for some valuable advice on getting them into a sleep schedule that will improve their quality of life.
New parents are frequently very concerned about how much sleep their child is having. Newborn babies have irregular sleep cycles and sleep an average of sixteen to seventeen hours per day. Nevertheless, they might only sleep a couple of hours at one time. As little ones get older, the total number of hours they require for sleep falls. A pre-school youngster may still want to sleep ten to twelve hours in every twenty four, whereas a school age child sleeps approximately ten hours each day. It is important to bear in mind that every child's sleeping pattern will be different.
Studies have shown that, as many as thirty seven percent of all youngsters suffer some form of major sleep issues including disrupted sleep, nightmares, sleepwalking and unwillingness to go to bed. Dealing with bedwetting - Nocturnal Enuresis, is an additional problem in older kids. The culmination of these issues can be the trigger of attention and behavior problems as well as attention deficit hyperactive disorder or ADHD in some school age children. If your child has difficulty getting off to sleep, it is essential for you, as a parent, to figure out if the cause might be the result or side effect of any ADHD medication he or she might be taking.
Kids can resist their bedtime for several reasons. Nevertheless, establishing consistent bedtime rituals can serve to avert sleep problems in children. This can include bathing, teeth brushing, story reading or saying prayers. This down time should be relaxing. If your little one suffers from nightmares or nighttime terrors, then lay down with them in their bed until they doze off. Do not take them to your own bed, because doing so will not encourage them to feel safe and comfy in their own room. It also helps if you talk with your youngster about why do we need to sleep. Tell them that sleep will help them to have more energy to play and grow up strong. This offers them an incentive to sleep more.
Youngsters learn from good example, so observe a natural sleep ritual yourself. If your child's symptoms remain, then look at seeing a sleep specialist. Sometimes sleep problems in children can be caused by depression or other anxiety disorders. Nevertheless, remember that every child is unique. If they are energetic and active during the day, then do not worry if they are experiencing periodic sleepless nights.
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