Sleep is critical for a child’s growth and development. A night of restful sleep can do wonders for their mood as well as their ability to focus and learn things. If your child’s having trouble sleeping, try these tips to improve their sleep quality.
Children can get excited over the littlest of things. If their brain’s stimulated watching television or playing on the tab, it can be difficult for them to relax and eventually go to sleep. So, try to help them calm down and relax for thirty minutes to an hour before their bedtime. Take away any objects such as smartphones, tablets and noisy toys that could stimulate their brain and get them hyped up. Instead, dim the lights and play some soothing music or maybe read to them from a book (not your tab). When you create the right atmosphere, it will help them fall asleep quicker.
Children function better when there are structure and rules set in place. Make sure your child’s going to bed at the same time every day. Having a routine will help them adapt better and make it easy for you to put them to bed and get them to sleep in the long run.
Being too full or feeling hungry can make it difficult for your child to fall asleep. Make sure they eat at a reasonable time – not too early or late – and have a healthy, fulfilling meal. Avoid sugary foods and items such as soda that can make your child feel hyped up. A glass of warm milk before bedtime may also help.
If you’re doing all of the above and still having trouble getting your child to sleep through the night, sit down and talk to them. Find out if something’s bothering them. Perhaps they feel scared in the dark and having a night lamp on through the night could help them relax. Children could give you some valuable insight that may point towards the root problem.
If nothing helps, please see a doctor to check if there are any medical reasons for the sleep disruption. At Tuross Head Medical Centre, our doctors are child-friendly and will provide you and your child with a safe and nurturing environment where you can freely discuss your concerns and get the best medical advice and guidance.
For an appointment, call 02 4413 2666
Tuross Head Medical Center