Helping Your Kids Get the Sleep They Need

By Donna Stark

Unlike adults, most children abhor the thought of going to bed early or of getting a good night of rest. They look for every excuse under the sun to stay up, they fight with their parents, and many are so focused on believing that sleep is "lame," they force themselves to stay awake, just for the sake of being able to say they did. Unfortunately, very few of them consider the benefits that come from quality sleep, but that's OK because as parents, we know what good rest can bring. If you want your children to wake up bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, take a look at the following suggestions. 

Design a Sleeping Environment

The environment your children sleep in plays a big factor in the quality of sleep they get. It can be difficult to fall and stay asleep if the temperature is too warm, the bed is not the right size, or there are bright lights and distracting noises filtering in. You may have to make some design changes, but it will be worth it in the end!

Ban Electronic Devices

The blue light emitted from electronic devices can interfere with your child's ability to fall asleep, so keep them powered off or out of the room. It is recommended that all devices be turned off at least an hour before bedtime and if you are thinking of putting a television in the room ... don't!

Establish a Set Bedtime Routine

The odds of getting the recommended amount of sleep increases when parents have their children go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, and that includes weekends too! So establish a routine that works for everyone and then do whatever is necessary to stay committed to it!

Limit Caffeine and Sugar

We all know the effects that caffeine and sugar have on our kids, so try to reduce (or eliminate) those guilty beverages in the evening hours. Better yet, have your children drink water or milk throughout the entire day instead. In addition to better sleep, removing those options completely will improve their overall health as well!

Use the Night to Relax

Stress and anxiety can make it extremely difficult for children to fall asleep, so teach yours how to relax. Helping your children wind down after a long, busy day is a great way to teach them a lifelong, healthy habit. You can do this by encouraging them to do things such as drawing, journaling, reading, or meditating.

Sleep Is Not Lame

If your children are still having trouble getting the quality of sleep their bodies need, bring them in to The Joint Chiropractic! Your local chiropractors can help you find the source of the problem and may even be able to convince your kids that sleep is far from being lame.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Renton, Wash.