Tips on Avoiding Sleep Problems
- Set up a consistent routine of pre-sleep activities
- Make bedtime a matter-of-fact part of the day
- Avoid using the bed as a place for discipline
- Avoid pre-bedtime rough play
- If a child’s sleep is disturbed, reassure him/her with your voice and your presence
- Encourage the ability to settle down with some transitional object
- For some children, it may take a period of crying to release themselves into sleep. Don’t rush in at the first peep, but don’t let them work into a major crying fit which will overstimulate them either
- At about eighteen months, night fears and nightmares may surface. A night light and a reassuring voice frequently help
- The toddler may try to delay with requests for another drink of water, another story, another kiss. A gentle, firm “good night” is appropriate
- If a child leaves bed to come out of his or her room they need to be led back to bed, whether it is one time or five times, CALMLY. Consistency works!