If your child isn’t getting enough sleep, try one of these tips to help them catch more Z’s:
- Add a nap or “resting time” to your child’s daily schedule. Activities during “resting time” could include reading or looking at picture books while lying in bed or on a couch in a quiet room. Such activities could easily turn “resting time” into nap time.
- If your child won’t stay in bed, join him or her in the room. Don’t talk or play with him or her – read or book or work on your laptop until he or she falls asleep.
- If your child is in daycare, ask the caregiver to track how long your child sleeps during nap time. Then adjust bedtime accordingly.
- Make sure your child is comfortable while sleeping. It could be something as simple as replacing a pillow or mattress. Involved him in the selection process by having him find out his Zzzz score.
- Offer your child warm milk or warm (sugar-free) apple cider before bed. Sometimes a warm, full belly is all it takes… just like when they were babies.
If you try these techniques and your child is still not getting enough sleep, consider talking with your pediatrician. Continued sleep struggles could indicate a sleep disorder which, if left untreated, could lead to other health issues.
