Sleep problems in children are frequently very different from the sleep disorders that plague grownups. Reports have shown that youngsters who do not get enough sleep at night will oftentimes 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 disorders in children, so parents should know how to deal with these issues. If you are worried about your youngsters sleeping habits, then read on for some valuable advice on getting them into a sleep schedule that will better their quality of life.
New parents are frequently very concerned about how much sleep their baby is getting. Newborn babies have irregular sleep cycles and sleep an average of sixteen to seventeen hours per day. Even so, they might only sleep one or two hours at one time. As babies progress, the total number of hours they need for sleep falls. A pre-school child might still want to sleep ten to twelve hours in every twenty four, whereas a school age youngster sleeps approximately ten hours in every twenty four. 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 young children suffer some form of major sleep issues including disrupted sleep, nightmares, sleepwalking and unwillingness to go to sleep. Bedwetting is an additional problem in older children. 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 important for you, as a parent, to work out if the reason may be the result or side effect of any ADHD medication he or she might be taking.
Children can protest their bedtime for various reasons. Nevertheless, establishing consistent bedtime rituals can help to quash sleep problems in children. This can include bathing, teeth brushing, story reading or saying prayers. This down time should be restful. If your youngster suffers from nightmares or nighttime terrors, then lay with them in their bed until they drop off. Never take them to your own bed, because doing so will not encourage them to feel safe and comfortable in their own bedroom. It also helps if you talk with your child about why sleep is important. Tell them that sleep will help them to have more energy to play and grow up strong. This offers them an inducement to sleep more.
Kids learn from example, so follow a regular sleep ritual yourself. If your child’s symptoms persist, then look at visiting a sleep specialist. On occasions sleep problems in children can be caused by depression or other anxiety disorders. Even so, bear in mind that each child is different. If they are energetic and active during the day, then do not worry if they are suffering periodic sleepless nights.