Top 10 Sleep Tips for Kids… and Parents
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.
Rest is important! Even God rested after creating the universe.
How much is rest enough for our children? 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 typically 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. For the preschool crowd, ten to twelve hours of sleep are recommended.
In matters of rest, 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.
Top 10 Sleep Tips for Kids… and Parents
1. 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.
2. Stick to a consistent bedtime.
3. Make your child’s bedroom a quiet and comfortable place to sleep.
4. Use the bed only for sleeping. Do not put a TV or computer in your child’s bedroom.
5. Limit food and drink before bedtime.
6. If your child has difficulty falling asleep, read books about bedtime. Have a cuddly friend (stuffed animal) that is really tired join in the story time.
7. Play soft music. This masks other household noise and is soothing.
8. Tuck your child into bed snugly for a feeling of security, using Scripture to remind your child of the Lord’s constant care.
9. Move bedtime by ten minutes each night to accommodate Daylight Savings Time.
10. Get to bed at a reasonable hour yourself. You’ll feel great and be better prepared for the day ahead.
In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.
Psalm 4:8
Copyright ©2015 Becky Danielson. All rights reserved.