Relationship

Your Child’s Dream: How Much Is Enough?

Research has shown that many children do not get enough sleep. Lack of sleep can affect your child’s school work, social interactions, and home life.

“If children are allowed to stay up late, they become hyperactive and it is generally more difficult to fall asleep. Parents also become rebellious and the entire family life is affected,” said Jacqui McGreavey, children’s sleep coordinator for Tayside. clinics.

It’s okay to say that children don’t get enough sleep, but how much is “enough”?

Here are some guidelines on how much sleep a child needs:

0 to 12 months – 16 to 18 hours. This is the time to start good sleep habits. Put him to sleep when he’s sleepy but still awake so he learns to calm himself to sleep.

1 to 3 years – 13 to 15 hours. Young children often have trouble calming down at night. Establish a quiet bedtime routine to encourage better sleep, such as bathing, bedtime stories, and bedtime. Most young children will still need a nap during the day.

4 to 5 years – 12 hours. Try to get 12 hours of sleep a night, but don’t stop napping during the day until you’re ready, or you will both suffer!

6 to 10 years – 10 to 12 hours. Research shows that problems in school are more likely if a child sleeps poorly. Keep televisions out of the bedroom and stick to regular bedtime, even on the weekends.

10 to 12 years – 8 to 10 hours. You may think you are an adult, but you still need to sleep! If your child’s behavior becomes difficult or his school work starts to be a problem, check to see that he is getting enough sleep.

12 to 18 years – 8 – 9 hours. Lack of sleep is linked to mood swings and behavior problems. A grumpy teenager may need a good night’s sleep. It is still vital to your health. Try to stick to regular bedtime, even on weekends.

Of course, as with most things related to children, these are just averages. Each child is an individual and may require a different amount of sleep, but it is good to have some guidance.

It is important to establish a relaxing routine for your child’s bedtime. Children like the safety of routines. It helps them feel more in control of their lives, as they know what to expect: “After my bath, I read a story, then I lie down and go to sleep.”

If your child wakes up during the night, calmly work out any problems and put him back to bed. Try not to get involved in long conversations or games, as this will encourage you to wake up more often to enjoy your “night care.”

When you establish a nighttime routine early in your child’s life, both of you will benefit from it. Your child will behave better and be more capable of learning, and you will be more rested and enjoy your child.

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