How to build a healthy sleep routine for children? | 2 min read

A healthy sleep routine for children is vital for their health, development, and well-being. It helps them stay healthy, grow, learn, and do well in school. Sleep physically restores the body and improves brain function and mental health. Children of all ages need to get enough sleep to play, learn and concentrate during the day.

Symptoms of a lack of sleep in children

Sleep problems are some of the most common issues faced by parents. When children don’t get enough rest, physical, behavioural, cognitive (mental), and emotional symptoms can occur over some time.

Learning and memory

Reduced academic performance
Lack of concentration and focus
Increased forgetfulness and poorer memory
Difficulty learning new information

Physical growth and activity

Decrease in muscle development and repair of cells and tissue
Lack of interest and motivation to exercise
Stunts’ average growth
Higher levels of obesity

Wellness

Weakened immune system
Children get sick more often

Safety

Sleepiness during the day
Increased impulsivity
Higher risk of accidents

Behaviour

More hyperactive
Irritability and moodiness
Increased stress
A decline in mental health

How to build healthy sleep routines

Research shows that children who follow bedtime routines are more likely to sleep earlier, take less time falling asleep, rest longer, and wake up less during the night.

A bedtime routine for children

Eat dinner
Take a bath
Brush teeth
Put on pajamas
Read a book

To make the routine even more effective, start winding down the household by dimming the lights and turning off screens in the lead-up to bed. The blue light from television and other electronic devices keeps the mind engaged, making it harder to be calm before bedtime.

Try to keep evening snacks light and healthy. Caffeine will keep children awake, and snacks or drinks high in sugar or carbohydrates may make it more difficult for a child to fall asleep. Sugary snacks or drinks before bed can also lead to cavities.

Calculate how much time your child should be sleeping and start the bedtime routine 45 minutes to an hour before the child needs to fall asleep. Stick to this schedule on the weekends, particularly with younger children.

Daily guidelines for healthy sleep by age

Babies 1 to 2 years: 11 to 14 hours
Children 3 to 5 years: 10 to 13 hours
Children 6 to 13 years: 9 to 11 hours
Teens: 8 to 10 hours
Adults: 7 to 8 hours

When should I take my child to the doctor?

Daily good sleep is critical to your child’s mental, physical, and emotional health. Being consistent with good bedtime habits will pay off for years to come.

If you are struggling with your child’s sleeping patterns, book an appointment with your doctor to ensure no underlying causes and get helpful advice for a good night’s rest.