Developing Good Sleep Habits for your Preschooler

As daylight lasts longer in the summer, getting your child to sleep may seem more difficult. Since quality and quantity of sleep can influence your child’s behavior, eating habits, mood, and ability to focus, practicing good sleeping habits can help your child’s long-term health.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, children ages 1-2 need 11 to 14 hours of sleep per night. Children ages 3-5 should get 11-13 hours of sleep per night. After 18 months of age, children will often take one nap per day. However, while naps are not needed by all children, daily quiet time away from stimulation is beneficial. Although every child is different, it is important to maintain a consistent sleep schedule and bed-time routine.

Here are some tips on how to develop healthy sleeping habits:

  • Helping your child fall asleep:
    • Try a warm bath or a bedtime story as part of the routine
    • Set an earlier bedtime
    • Start dimming the lights earlier
  • Staying Asleep:
    • Ensure that the sleep environment is quiet, dark, and without a TV.
    • If awake during the night, do not offer snacks.

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