What can you do to get your child to sleep?
1. Once you've established that they're not ill and have no underlying health issue start keeping a sleep diary. Write down the time your child woke up, went to bed and fell asleep, and when they woke up in the night. It will help you to see the overall picture.
2. Get the bedtime routine right. Make sure they're had a good tea and aren't hungry. But don't give them sweets or fizzy drinks in the evening as this will keep them awake. Introduce a 'wind down' time when the TV and computers are turned off, lights are dimmed and stimulating activities are banned. Discuss their day and any problems or worries they may have now, not just before you say good night. After a bath and a story make sure they're in bed at a regular and reasonable time.
3. Don't stay with them until they're asleep. They need to learn to get themselves to sleep so give them a kiss goodnight and leave the room. Don't respond to calls for attention. Demands for a drink or another kiss will become a habit if you give in. Don't rush into your child's room if he calls you during the night (unless he's ill). Wait and see if he can settle himself.
4. Try offering a reward if they do as you ask, such as staying in bed later. It can be a treat like a trip to the swings or a small toy, but often the best rewards are a cuddle and an extra story.
Suggested reading
Teach your Child to Sleep by Mandy Gurney and Tracey Marshall, Hamlyn £9.99
No Cry Sleep Solutions for Toddlers and Preschoolers by Elizabeth Pantely (£9.99 McGraw-Hill)
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Sinead, over 2 years
My son is being assessed for ADHD, he is 2 and a half he does not sleep at night, I am very lucky if i get 3 good nights in a week where he sleeps all night, please cud you give me some advice as i have tried everything else
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Pushpa, 6 months
Hi , My Baby is now 16months old. Last night he woke up after an hour into sleep and stated crying. His Grand parents and Myself tried to comfort him by cuddling and holding him in our arms but he would not stop . He stopped after 10 mins , but resumed again giving some breaks in crying . He does not seem to have opened his eyes until 20 mins into his crying. We removed his nappy and he stopped for a while , but started again. We observed that This happens whenever we take him out to a new place or to the beach. Is he having night terrors? This routine offen repeats when he meets new people. But he usually enjoys hteir company and shows no sign of distress during their visit. Can anybody suggest whats happenening? Thanks in advance.
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