How To Get Babies And Children To Sleep

Children are sources of boundless energy but parents crave more sleep time. Increasing the odds of getting children firmly into dreamland is the goal. Babies and children are little darlings and certainly the object of a parent’s bottomless love but mayhem ensues when sleep deprivation sets in. Courtesy of the cherub, those sleepless nights can seem endless and finding the cure becomes paramount.

Sleep Tips for Parents of Newborns

With newborn babies commanding both parents’ attention, missing sleep can be a recipe for disaster. Due to the lack of mature circadian rhythms, creating a schedule for the baby may be weeks or even months in the making. However, making parent’s sleep a priority can be addressed immediately.

• Take Turns Sleeping – An obvious solution is often missed and that is sleeping or at least napping in shifts. Many mothers and some fathers find it difficult to sleep deeply even when the other parent takes over. Therefore, it is important to consider taking the baby for a walk or car ride in order to allow the sleeping parent some quality rest.
• Call on Help – Depending on finances and family availability, seek help. If a grandparent or aunt or family friend can be counted on, reaching out and scheduling a rotation of support is a huge step toward relief. Once again consider sending the baby out for an hour walk, leaving the house quiet and sleep friendly.

Keeping in mind that babies develop quickly and often begin sleeping more within weeks may be of no help when sleep deprivation is occurring; therefore it can be helpful to stay in communication with a doctor. Sharing concerns encourages solutions and support.

Photo by Gregory Pappas on Unsplash

Successful Sleep for the Older Child

As children grow, sleep patterns become established with 40 percent of childhood spent asleep. Parents rejoice during these years as sleep deprivation generally recedes. For parents who still struggle with kids and sleep, the quest continues and some ideas below might be the trick.

• Regular Bedtime – Stay with a consistent bedtime and wake time.
• No Distraction – Keep the bedroom free of distraction and without a TV or computer.
• Schedule Three – Having three parts to a routine can create a sense of bedtime approaching. Bath, teeth brushing and a story are obvious and simple choices.
• Incentives – Enacting incentives can be a powerful tool. Allow children to place a token in a box at breakfast after a successful night’s sleep. Cashing in a week’s worth of tokens for the choice of a new craft or making home made playdough with a parent may be the best solution.

From the Family Bed to Successful Sleep

With patience and perseverance most sleep problems pass. Calling on the support of friends and family can ease the quest for a solid night of sleep. Utilizing tips and advice often presents an answer that is the perfect fit for baby and parents.