When Putting Kids to Sleep Becomes Your Nightmare

Pre-schoolers

Without using unreasonable rigidity, parents should expect this age group to sleep about 10-12 hours of sleep.  Though a daytime rest period may be in order, napping usually disappears.  This is an age group prone to nightmares, so you want to really emphasize quiet time before sleep rituals and carefully monitor what your child watches on TV.  One great technique is to prepare a "nighttime defense kit" for a child struggling with nightmares or difficulties falling asleep.  It can include a flashlight (very small light), a special calming storybook, or a soft music CD.  Your child will feel comfort knowing it is in the room.

Schoolage

Younger school age children typically need about 10 hours of sleep, while older school age children average a bit over 9 hours of sleep.  This is an age where ADD and ADHD may interfere with sleep patterns.  Again, keeping a TV out of the room, finishing sports and homework activities well before bedtime and keeping a familiar sleep routine in place,  can ensure that your child has a good night's sleep.

Next up: Part 2 - What Causes Sleep to go Awry?