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MAIN
Health
Kids
Health
Sleep
How much
sleep do children need?
Does it
vary with each child?
What happens
when they don't get the recommended amount of sleep?
Is it
really important to fit in that afternoon nap even if the
child doesn't want it?
These
are just some questions that parents, new and "experienced"
ones alike, want answered.
Naptime
Every
child is different. Therefore, what might help one child's
sleep habits might not make a wink of difference to another.
When everything
is said and done, the solution to common sleep difficulties
may all boil down to getting to know your child and their
particular sleep habits. For example, a preschool teacher
can require a "naptime" which might work just fine
for little Suzy, but may keep little Johnny up for two extra
hours after his regular bedtime. So don't be shy about discussing
your preschooler's sleep habits with teachers or other caretakers.
They will be glad you did!
The
importance of a good night's sleep
Sleep
deprived children (as well as adults) have more trouble controlling
their emotions. The part of the brain that helps us to control
our actions and our response to feelings is affected greatly
by lack of sleep. For kids especially, not getting enough
sleep can lead to all kinds of problems, including trouble
with paying attention and difficulties with learning and behavior.
Elsewhere
on the Web, learn more about sleep and naptime with expert
advice on bedtime rituals, tips on developing good habits,
and how important sleep is to you and your family ...
Netdoctor.co.uk
- Answers the questions about the importance of sleep in children
of all ages. Good advice on bedtime rituals.
Kids
Health - Growth & Development - Sleeping &
bedtime discussed in detail with tons of great tips and links.
University
of Michigan - Great detail on the different aspects
of sleep with information on the benefits, advice on bedtime
strategies, even the pros and cons of sharing the family bed
with your little one. Tons of links to other sleep related
topics, too.
Sleep
Education - One-stop browsing for sleep tips by age
group for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, middle childhood
and early teens, plus facts about sleep disorders and how
to treat them.
Sleep
for Kids - Great site for children to learn the importance
of sleep with advice from P.J. Bear who teaches all the important
details, plus sleep-related games and puzzles.
Feature
Articles on Child Development
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