Getting Enough ZZZs…Sleep

Sleep Habits for Kids

…when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. Proverbs 3:24b

Getting Enough ZZZs? In regard to attitude, health and general well being nothing beats a good night sleep. I know at my house when we are not getting enough of the old shut eye things deteriorate quickly; tempers are quick to flare, work doesn’t get done and we all usually end up sick. Bedtime is important!

Rest is important!

Remember, God rested after creating the universe.

How much is enough for our kids? Generally speaking, babies need 14-15 hours of sleep per day, with sleep patterns beginning to be established at 4-5 months. Your baby’s three naps a day will decrease to two afternoon naps around 6 months.

Toddlers need 12-14 hours of sleep per night with one nap during the day. Work your schedule around nap time. Ten to twelve hours of sleep are recommended for preschoolers. As with many aspects of parenting, consistency helps. Determine a bedtime and try to stick to it. Your child’s internal clock will develop a pattern, which is exactly what is needed.

As children grow, a proper amount of sleep is necessary. Bodies are growing! Elementary school age children should be getting 10-11 hours a night and your teen still needs 8-9 hours to be fully rested. And sometimes more. If you have teens, you know exactly what I mean!

Here are some tips regarding bedtime for little ones.

• Develop a routine and keep it consistent. (Jammies on, teeth brushed, reading time, prayers, and kisses.) Include a time for quiet activities 30 minutes before bedtime to “set the stage” for bedtime.
• Stick to a consistent bedtime.
• Make your child’s bedroom a quiet and comfortable place to sleep.
• Use the bed only for sleeping. Do not put a TV or computer in your child’s bedroom.
• Limit food and drink before bedtime.
• Play soft music. This masks other household noise and is soothing.
• Tuck your child into bed snugly for a feeling of security, using Scripture to remind your child of the Lord’s constant care. In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety. Psalm 4:8

© 2012 Becky Danielson. All rights reserved.

If you’ve been encouraged by this post, please take a moment to subscribe to the Faith First Parent e-newsletter, join in the conversation on the Facebook page or share the post with a friend.

Photo by Sadık Kuzu on Unsplash