Getting a good night sleep is just as important as eating the right foods. Sleep allows our body a period of time to restore. Sleep helps reduce stress and provides the body and mind a period of time to heal. The National Sleep Foundation reports that the average toddler gets three to six hours less sleep for the recommended period of time. Twenty-eight percent of high school students report that they fall asleep in school at least once a week. ScottCounseling parents with “Sleep Tips” to help your child get the sleep that he or she requires.
Sleep Tips:
Establish Routines: Helping your child get into a routine, especially during the school week is important. The body has it’s own internal clock that can be set
once it get into the habit of turning on and turning off. Strive to establish a consistent wake up time and bed time for each day of the week.
Set Limits and Enforce Rules: Too many children have TV’s and other simulating devices in their bedrooms. Take them out or shut them down at least one hour before bed time. Read “Setting Limits and Enforcing Rules” article for more tips on this subject.
Eating Habits: For many individuals, eating right before you go to bed increases your body’s energy level. The body’s digestive system kicks in to breakdown the food. This may cause your child to sleep poorly. Help your child to watch what he or she eats and drinks before bed time. Caffeine in pop and chocolate candy is a stimulant and may keep your child awake.
Sleeping Patterns: Research indicates that high school students do need more rest. Some students may take a nap when they get home from school. This is acceptable as long as nap time does not turn into a lengthy period of time. Limit naps to one hour.
Warm Bath and Reading: Allowing your child to take a warm bath before bed time may help your child to sleep better. The warm water relaxes the body’s stressed muscles and has been known to psychologically relax the mind and reduce stress as well.
Speak With Your Doctor: If your child has constant poor sleep patterns, a visit with your medical doctor may be necessary. Anxiety and depression often causes poor sleep patterns or insomnia.
