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SLEEPY TIME
by Suzanne Rose Lubkowski
Most of us moms and dads have experienced one time or another a sleepless baby or child! When my own son was an infant, that child did not believe in sleeping. Interestingly now at twelve, he loves to sleep. I wish I would of had a bag of sleep solutions at my disposal that I now have. You learn a lot in twelve years!
It's important to know that you may need to try several different tips before you find one or more that works for your child. Experiment and try to be patient in the process!
First of all, experts advise parents to have a set sleep schedule. Going to bed at the same time every night is the first step. Have a relaxing ritual such as a warm bath, stories, favorite stuffed toys, lullabies, and music.
Be sure the child is dressed for the temperature. I remember having my son dressed so warmly that someone (probably my mom in law if I remember correctly) said that no wonder he has that baby rash, he is dressed too warm! He was a late summer baby and I had him dressed like it was February! Also, children's own body temperatures vary. My daughter does not like covers on at night. She is likely to have no covers and even take clothing off in the middle of the night if she gets too warm.
Soft cuddly clothing can make an infant or young child feel snug and secure. Most newborns and babies need that secure feeling around them. In addition, soft gentle music or lullabies help many babies with security. As children get older, stories and tapes are beneficial. This ritual is helpful at any age, even the older child. My children and I have established a ritual of my sharing a story when I grew up. My son usually asks for a story every night. I see this as a special time and an opportunity for them to even pass these stories on to their children some day.
It's important to be aware of what foods and drinks the child consumes before bedtime. There is a theory that milk (except for infants) should not be taken as it contributes to bed wetting; despite the anecdote of warm milk that we have heard for many years. Caffeine and sugar are some chemicals that keep eyes wide awake past bedtime.
In summary, a few steps that might assist children and parents get a better night's rest include:
-- establish a regular bedtime schedule
-- create rituals and special wind-down activities to signal the child and
his/her body it is time to slow down for the day
-- be cognizant of food and drink intake after dinner
-- be patient and ........ remember my twelve year old now loves sleeping!
For moms and dads who have challenges sleeping many of these tips are also useful. In addition, calcium magnesium and or valerian herb are very beneficial for relaxing tense muscles and getting a restful sleep.
SLEEP WELL!
©2000 Suzanne Rose Lubkowski. Used by permission of author.
Contributed by Suzanne Rose Lubkowski, Wellness Consultant
Integrative Wellness
Contact zannrose@aol.com or visit
http://www.shaklee.net/integrativewellness
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