Lack of sleep

Many children ages from two to six do not fall asleep promptly after going to bed, and they end up suffering from lack of sleep. The child may be too tired or wrought up to sleep. Romping before bedtime or too strenuous or exciting play may be the cause. Maybe the child didn’t have his afternoon nap.Every child should go through the routine of an afternoon nap, until starting school. You can also practice interruption of active play every hour or so during the day, which is followed by a quiet period, in which stories are told, or read to the child, as should be efficient.

Often the child will keep himself awake by calling his mother to his bedside for attention over periods of an hour or more. If this is the case, just before going to sleep, tell him that tonight that you are not coming back later on, and keep your word.

If there is a baby brother or sister, allow the older toddler to go half an hour later to bed, to make them feel that they are the ‘big ones’, and this way when they do go to bed, they will go much easier, and without putting up a fight.

Some of the home remedies that you can give your children before going to sleep is a nice warm bath (not too hot), and a glass of warm milk right after. Many times this works wonders.

Of course, if the lack of sleep turns into something more serious, and is accompanied by other problems, such as stomach pains, you should definitely consult a pediatrician.

One Response to “Lack of sleep problems for toddlers”