Sleep Problems in Children
Children of any age can have a variety of sleep problems. Some of the most common sleeping problems seen in children include waking up several times during the night, talking in their sleep, have problems falling to sleep, waking up in tears, being sleepy throughout the day, nightmares, bed wetting, and even waking up early.
The majority of sleep problems in children is related to anxiety about falling asleep (separation from parents) and poor sleep habits.
Both of these causes can be distinguished with a bedtime routine and the creation of a sleep environment. If these tips do not help, then you may need to seek professional help as the problem may be related to emotional problems.
A bedtime routine should include quiet time at least thirty minutes prior to bedtime. This time should also be quality time with one or both parents and can include a relaxing bath, reading a book, or even cuddling and listening to soft soothing music.
To create a sleep environment you will need to ensure all toys and distractions are taken from the room or put away in a closet. It is best if you have another room that can be used as a playroom, if not teach your child to put away their toys in the closet. They will learn that play time is during the daylight hours and that the toys need a rest period as well, at least while they are young.
The room should not be overly bright. You can use such things as a white noise machine to help in absorbing all the sounds that might be awaking your child in the middle of the night. Ensure your little one that you are nearby and that you will be there when the sun begins to shine. One great way to teach your child this concept is with a Biobrite Sunrise Clock Junior. This alarm clock uses light therapy. The sunlight created by the clock will slowly fade away and in the morning, it will slowly begin to shine just as the sun. This will help your child understand when it is time to rise. You can set the clock so you know you will up and ready to begin your day when your little one is awake.
With the help of a sleep noise machine or a sunrise alarm clock, your child will begin to adjust to sleeping the night and waking up rested.
The majority of sleep problems in children is related to anxiety about falling asleep (separation from parents) and poor sleep habits.
Both of these causes can be distinguished with a bedtime routine and the creation of a sleep environment. If these tips do not help, then you may need to seek professional help as the problem may be related to emotional problems.
A bedtime routine should include quiet time at least thirty minutes prior to bedtime. This time should also be quality time with one or both parents and can include a relaxing bath, reading a book, or even cuddling and listening to soft soothing music.
To create a sleep environment you will need to ensure all toys and distractions are taken from the room or put away in a closet. It is best if you have another room that can be used as a playroom, if not teach your child to put away their toys in the closet. They will learn that play time is during the daylight hours and that the toys need a rest period as well, at least while they are young.
The room should not be overly bright. You can use such things as a white noise machine to help in absorbing all the sounds that might be awaking your child in the middle of the night. Ensure your little one that you are nearby and that you will be there when the sun begins to shine. One great way to teach your child this concept is with a Biobrite Sunrise Clock Junior. This alarm clock uses light therapy. The sunlight created by the clock will slowly fade away and in the morning, it will slowly begin to shine just as the sun. This will help your child understand when it is time to rise. You can set the clock so you know you will up and ready to begin your day when your little one is awake.
With the help of a sleep noise machine or a sunrise alarm clock, your child will begin to adjust to sleeping the night and waking up rested.
Labels: BioBrite, light therapy, sleep noise machine, sleeping problems, sunrise alarm clock

