Is Your Child Not Sleeping?

February 9, 2018
Anyone who’s ever had a baby knows that “sleeping like a baby” is a metaphor that doesn’t make much sense!  Whether it’s trying to maintain a nap schedule or worrying about their teenagers texting until all hours of the morning, every parent has concerns about their kids’ sleep habits.  However, sleep problems are not something that should be dismissed with a simple “kids will be kids”.  If your child isn’t sleeping, a stop at one of the mattress stores Orange County has available could be in order.

What’s At Stake

Doctors say that most school-aged children should be getting between 9-11 hours of sleep.  Getting less time can lead to mood swings, irritability, more colds and flu, and even lower grades in school.  But today’s children deal with unique challenges, from the ubiquity of light-emitting phones, toys, and other devices, to busy schedules.  Some kids even worry about terrorism or other topics they overhear their parents discussing.  Although children need sleep more than ever, it can seem more difficult that ever to actually get it.

 

Make Sure Your Child’s Mattress Isn’t The Problem

While there can be some pretty oddball reasons for a kid to keep themselves awake (monsters under the bed, anyone?), sometimes the reasons are surprisingly simple.  For instance, have you considered that your child’s mattress may simply be uncomfortable?  Children are often sleeping on a toddler bed that they’ve outgrown, or on old, worn-out hand-me-down mattresses.  Remember, if a mattress is uncomfortable for an adult, it’s not going to be comfortable for a child, either.  Invest in a quality mattress to support your child’s growing spine.

 

Use Great Sleep Practices

Prioritizing sleep hygiene isn’t just something for busy executives anymore.  Make sure that you’re giving your child the best chance of quality sleep by following these simple rules:

  • Set a consistent bedtime, and get up at the same time every day.

  • Sleep in a dark, cool room.

  • Avoid bright lights and screens for 1-2 hours before bed.

  • Have a consistent, relaxing bedtime routine.

It may not seem as important as getting a healthy diet, studying, or getting enough exercise, but research shows time and again that having healthy sleep habits is vital for your child’s well-being.  Don’t be shy about taking steps today to ensure that your child gets a good night’s rest tonight.

 

Sources:

How Much Sleep Do Children Need? – www.webmd.com

Sleep And Mood – www.healthysleep.med.harvard.edu