Sleep Easy

One of the greatest joys that our children bring us is their uniqueness. So much so that when it comes to education, the teachers develop learning programs which cater for ‘differentiation;’ meaning the learning needs of the child are catered for in a safe and supportive learning environment. Which is why it is strange that when it comes to our expectations of little ones outside the educational setting all the advice- at times- can seem a bit one dimensional. How can we expect children to be treated like individuals in the classroom but expect blanket expectations to work at home? This is seen from the moment we bring our youngsters home when people question how well our little one is eating, socialising and sleeping. As parents it can be confusing with all the information out there to know what sleep pattern is normal for your little one. The bottom line take away is to know that when it comes to ‘normal’ there is a wide range of sleep patterns and sleep patterns change.

Children aged between 0–5 years old need an average of 12 hours sleep per day, but this can vary depending on their age. Newborns require up to 18 hours, while school-aged children need about 11 or 12 hours per day. Sleep patterns change as the child ages and by the time they are in pre-school, they will have established a routine that best suits them- which may not be the routine that is the same as the children in the parenting forum on Facebook, the textbooks or what the child next door is doing.

Early childhood is a time of rapid physical and cognitive development. The importance of sleep in early childhood has been widely studied and documented, with many studies showing that children who have regular sleep patterns have better cognitive development and memory formation. However; all parents have experienced the set back or developmental leaps, sleep regression and the peril that illness can have over a sleep routine. The important take away here is to be kind to yourself and your little one. These set backs are normal. The routine will come back and you will get some sleep!

Feeling stuck? Talk to your educator here at Bright Beginnings- with all of our experience in Early Childhood we are able to provide a supportive ear should you need it. The best way to help children get the rest they need is by following these tips:

1. Establish a nightly routine.
2. Limit screen time before bed.
3. Keep electronics out of the bedroom.
4. Create a comfortable environment in your child’s room that promotes sleep such as blackout curtains or white noise machines.

Kids are growing and changing at a rapid pace and their sleep needs change with them. It can be difficult to keep up with the ever-changing needs of a child, but parents don’t have to feel guilty about not getting enough sleep.