Struggling to Get Your Baby to Sleep? Try These Proven Tips!

Kids rarely volunteer that they’re ready to sleep. Unless they’re ill or feverish, it’s uncommon for them to ask to go to bed. “It’s up to the parents to recognize the signs of fatigue in their children,” explains Sylvie Royant-Parola, a psychiatrist specializing in sleep disorders. She adds, “there are two types of signs. Some children may rub their eyes, become cranky, etc., showing obvious tiredness. Others may become hyperactive as bedtime approaches.”

How Much Sleep Does a Child Need?

Although children’s sleep needs vary, they generally require more sleep than adults. Additionally, napping is crucial, especially until the age of three, to reduce overall daily stress. A 30-minute nap helps “shorten the day,” states the psychiatrist. “However, parents should ensure that naps aren’t too long, otherwise the child might not sleep well at night“. The bedroom environment is also crucial. “Avoid bright lights and shadow-casting objects in the room. If a child is afraid of complete darkness, parents can use a nightlight or leave the door slightly open.“

How to Signal that Bedtime Is Near?

Establishing a bedtime routine helps children recognize that it’s almost time to sleep. This routine should include fixed bedtime hours and pre-sleep preparations such as brushing teeth, a hug, and a bedtime story. This consistency helps the child recognize the recurring pre-sleep activities. “Parents should maintain neutrality in timing. They shouldn’t alter bedtime based on personal preferences, as adequate sleep is essential for the child’s well-being. The routine should be consistent, with few exceptions, even during holidays“. It’s especially important to maintain the same routine on non-school days, especially for younger children. “Some 4/5-year-olds go to bed at 11 PM. This is very concerning. Sleep deprivation is a leading cause of obesity“, warns Sylvie Royant-Parola.

How to Respond to a Child Who Resists Bedtime?

If a child procrastinates bedtime, parents need to adjust their approach. Sometimes, a child may ask for a glass of water repeatedly just to stay up longer. Parents need to assess every situation thoughtfully. If it’s very hot, obviously hydrate the child. If in doubt, provide a glass or two of water, but no more. “Responding to every request isn’t advisable. Ignoring continued requests can help reduce them, a technique known as extinction“, emphasizes the psychiatrist. Some parents might not see their child during the week due to late work hours. In these situations, Sylvie Royant-Parola advises, “parents should make an effort to come home earlier. It’s not up to the child to stay up late“.

How to Manage Nightmares?

The phase of nightmares typically begins around 16 months and can last until three years old. While brief, this period can be very distressing for children. “If a child has a nightmare, parents can reassure them or help them ‘hunt for monsters.’ If that’s not enough, other methods like drawing the monster and then throwing the drawing away can help the child overcome their fear“, suggests Dr. Royant-Parola. Following a frightening experience, sleeping next to the child can be comforting, but “it’s important not to make it a habit. Teaching a child to fall asleep independently is crucial, and disrupting this with such practices can lead to sleep-onset insomnia later in life“.