Children who maintain a regular pattern of quality sleep are generally better able to cope with life’s challenges. They tend to be less irritable, more focused, and they experience fewer behavioral outbursts.
Kids need routine in their lives to help them feel secure and untroubled. Even at the preteen stage, a nighttime routine is essential for a calm transition from the day’s busyness to a state of relaxation.
As adults, we can recognize this in our own lives – trying to sleep while we are still caught up in our thoughts or smart phone does not a great night’s sleep make!
– 1-3 Years: 12 – 14 hours per day – 3-6 Years: 10 – 12 hours per day – 7-12 Years: 10 – 11 hours per day – 12-18 Years: 8 – 10 hours per day
Who says baths are just for little ones? We love a relaxing soak as adults. And tweens or teens should be encouraged to indulge in a little self care mixed with good hygiene, too.
Listening to a guided meditation either via an app, a tool like the Morphee meditation player, or reading a meditation script can calm and empty the mind easily while giving them something to focus on. Guided meditation scripts for sleep or anxiety can really help at bedtime.