24/7: A Resource For Working Parents
Helping Children Get More Rest
Research shows that today’s kids are getting less sleep than children from past generations. Most parents know that going short of sleep can make kids moody and irritable. But did you know why? One big reason is stress. Lack of sleep reduces children’s ability to deal with stress, and is in fact a stressor itself.
How you can help:
A recent research review conducted at the University of British Columbia found that two of the best strategies to help children and youth get more sleep are establishing sleep routines and limiting technology before bedtime.
• Set regular bedtimes and consistent bedtime routines. This not only gives you the best chance of getting your kids to bed at a decent time, it also helps young children develop rhythms for sleep and waking.
• Help your child wind down before bedtime with a bath, stories, quiet music or by doing some relaxed belly breathing together.
• Get kids off computers, tablets and cellphones at least an hour before bedtime. Device screens, and the light they emit, stimulate the brain in ways that make it harder for children (and adults) to feel ready for sleep.
• No cellphones in bed. A surprising number of teens and preteens send and receive text message when they should be sleeping. Make nighttime the time when everybody recharges their cellphones.