Helping a Child who Cannot Sleep
Sleep problems in children are often very different from the sleep disorders that plague adults. Reports have indicated that kids who do not receive adequate sleep at night will often nod 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 kids 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 often very concerned about how much sleep their child is having. Newborns have irregular sleep cycles and sleep an average of sixteen to seventeen hours in every twenty four. However, they may only sleep one or two hours at one time. As children progress, the total number of hours they require for sleep falls. A pre-school toddler might still want to sleep ten to twelve hours in every twenty four, whereas a school age youngster sleeps some ten hours in every twenty four. It is important to remember that each child’s sleeping pattern will be different.
It is well known that a youngster who has a sleep problem will also develop behavioral and attention difficulties in school. Various studies have reported that some thirty-seven percent of all school aged youngsters experience significant, nocturnal sleeping issues. Problems may include a reluctance to go to bed, interrupted sleep, nightmares and sleepwalking. Bedwetting or Nocturnal Enuresis in children that are older can also turn into a challenge. Sleep problems are also common in children with attention deficit hyperactive disorder or ADHD. It is important to try to figure out if these issues, particularly if your youngster has difficulty falling asleep, are a side effect of any ADHD medication they might be taking.
Children can protest their bedtime for various reasons. Nonetheless, establishing consistent bedtime rituals can help to avert sleep problems in children. This can include bathing, teeth brushing, story reading or saying prayers. This down time should be restful. If your little one suffers from nightmares or night terrors, then lay down with them in their bed until they fall asleep. Do not take them to your own bed, since doing so will not encourage them to feel safe and comfy in their own room. It also helps if you chat with your child 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 gives them an incentive to sleep more.
Kids learn from example, so observe a normal sleep ritual yourself. If your child’s symptoms remain, then look at visiting a sleep specialist. Sometimes sleep problems in children can be caused by depression or other anxiety disorders. Nonetheless, bear in mind that every child is different. If they are lively and active during the day, then do not worry if they are having periodic sleepless nights.
