Sleep

This information was submitted by Carol Trillia, a Developmental Specialist with Davis Early Intervention

Sleep

In order to ensure good sleeping patterns in infants and children it is important to start with a consistent routine.

Most  babies will be able to sleep through the night once they reach 10 lbs. at about 3-4 months of age,  as long as there are no medical conditions that will interfere with these natural patterns.

In order to establish good sleeping patterns it is necessary to establish a good  sleep wake routine.

Here are some tips on things that will help your infant or toddler be ready to go to bed and get a good night sleep.

Going to bed at the same time every night is essential, falling asleep and waking at the same time organize sleep rhythms  by cuing the brain when to release sleep and wake hormones.

• ·        Have a regular bedtime  routine  as in : bath, read a book or other calming activity. "the drop in body temperature after getting out of the bath signals the brain to go to sleep"
• ·        Nightly relaxation rituals help condition the mind/body to shift into relaxation mode.
• ·        Stick to a regular bedtime as closely as possible .
• ·        Turn TV and other electronics off 2-3 hours before bed. Do not let child fall asleep watching TV
• ·        It is important for the environment to be quiet, dark and cool. Noise and light are very alerting. If the room is to warm it is hard for the child to relax and calm. 62-70 degrees Fahrenheit is recommended.
• ·        Turn off night lights. Research had shown that light interferes with the production of Melatonin the hormone that promotes sleep.
• ·        If the child wakes at night, stay calm, do not turn lights on and do not engage in talking to the child this will fully awake him/her and will make it harder to go back to sleep. Calm  and reassure by shushing quietly, rocking and putting child back in his/her bed.
• ·        Unless it is medically indicated after 5 months the child does not need a night feeding. If the child needs a bottle to calm try warm water instead of milk.

Carol Trillia EIS