A sound sleep is necessary for everyone’s health, especially the toddlers. If they are able to sleep well it saves a lot of trouble for parents and other family members. Because, if the toddler is unable to sleep, then almost all the family members become disturbed, and they themselves loose sleep and thereby their health in the process. Here are some tips that will be of value to the kids and the parents as well.
First of all, parents should make the toddlers form a habit of going to bed and getting up at a fixed time. Setting a fixed time for these activities will set their biological clock for sleeping and waking. Going to bed early will make the kids enjoy longer and better sleep. Hence, the most appropriate time to send the kids to bed is around 6.30 or 7.30 pm. When the kids get used to this time table, they will sleep and wake when the time comes automatically, fully refreshed.
Also, ensure that the kids get regular naps during the day. Daily regular naps are important for the kids to sleep well at night too. A child who spends the day without nap will progressively become restless and jumpy as the day hours pass by. Keep the room relatively dark when the kids are sleeping or napping. When it is dark, the body produces a sleep hormone. Hence, the kids will feel sleepy if their surrounding is kept in dim light for an hour or so before they are due to go to bed. Similarly, the kids will wake up soon if their surrounding is brightened with sunlight or electric lamps in the morning.
Kids spend their days in active games and frolics, and it may continue up to bed time. Hence, they may find it difficult to sleep early. Therefore, parents need to take kids through a bedtime routine that will calm them down and prepare them for sleep. The routine before bedtime could include bathing, wearing night dress, praying and telling stories, and so on. This should be practiced regularly and consistently. Also, keep the bed and the surrounding cozy for the kids. It must include comfortable mattress, blankets, light, room temperature and night dress.
Snacks before bed time should consist of sleep-inducing nutrients such as carbohydrates. Items such as yogurt and low-sugar granola, whole wheat toast and cheese, oatmeal and banana, bagel and peanut butter contain a lot of carbohydrates.
Proteins and sugar induces alertness and these should be given during the day. A balanced diet during the day is also necessary for inducing sound sleep at night.
A lot of physical activity during the day makes the kids feel tired and sleepy towards the evening and fall asleep quickly. However, they should stop these activities at least one hour before bedtime to calm them down. Otherwise they might continue with the game even on the bed. Watching too much TV or idling away the time will make the kids restless and hyper-alert during bedtime. They will take time to sleep, with frequent sleep interruptions, and wake up the next morning weary and tired. Make the kids feel relaxed and lie still on the bed by telling or reading them stories. The stillness will make them fall asleep smoothly.
Posted on May 13th, 2008 by admin
Filed under: Baby, Child Care, Diet, Sleep, Tips, Toddler
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