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In conjunction with the National Sleep Foundation and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, Merit Center for Sleep Health can provide educational seminars on pediatric sleep disorders and sleep health. For upcoming seminars and in-services, please see news & events
Common Myths Associated With Chidlren & SleepCOMMON MYTHS ASSOCIATED WITH CHILDREN AND SLEEP
#1 – It is okay to put a baby to sleep on their stomach.
Babies should always be put on their back while sleeping. Following the ‘back to sleep’ program helps to reduce the rate of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Additionally, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents and caregivers should avoid putting babies on water beds, sofas, pillows, soft mattresses and other soft surfaces. This will also lessen the risk of SIDS.
#2 – Wait until the child is fully asleep before placing them in their bed.
Babies and children should always be put to bed when they are drowsy, not fully asleep.
#3 – Children will sleep longer at night if they do not have a nap during the day.
For babies and young children, naps as well as nighttime sleep are a necessary part of their sleep cycle and vital for their continued growth and development. Children who nap well tend to be less cranky in the later hours of the day. Naps are typically discontinued between two (2) and five (5) years of age. Daytime sleepiness and/or the need to nap after this age should be brought to the child’s physician’s attention
Helpful Hints to Establish A Healthy Bed Time Routine
- Make bedtime the same every night, even on weekends
- Provide the child with a light snack prior to bedtime, remembering to avoid stimulants such as sugary drinks, caffeine, candy and other sweets
- Take a warm bath
- Put on pajamas
- Brush teeth
- Read a story
- Make sure the child’s room is quiet, dark and a comfortable temperature
- Put the child in bed when he/she is drowsy, not fully asleep
- Say goodnight and leave the child to fall asleep on his/her own
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