TWO & UNDER
Sleep is the primary activity of the brain during early development.
Circadian rhythms or the sleep-wake cycle, are regulated by exposure to natural light and dark and take some time to develop, hence the irregular sleep patterns of newborns.
The rhythms will begin to develop at about 6 weeks, and by 3 to 6 months most infants have a regular sleep-wake cycle.
By the the time your baby is 2 years old s/he will have spent more time asleep than awake. Sleep is especially important for children as it directly impacts mental and physical development.
As babies reach 6 months many will start to sleep through the night, 70-80 percent may do so by 9 months of age but sleep disturbances are still common into the second year of a baby’s life. Sometimes parents try to eliminate daytime naps to encourage longer sleep at night. This rarely works and often leads to over-tiredness and poorer sleep.
TODDLERS
Toddlers need about 11-14 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period and will continue to need daytime naps.
Tips for toddlers:
Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule and consistent bedtime routine.
Try to ensure that the bedroom environment is comforting and the same every night and throughout the night.
Offer and encourage a special security item such as a blanket or stuffed animal.
Offer reassurance and comfort if your child wakes and is distressed. Meeting his needs will reassure him and help him to resettle.
THE BIG MOVE TO A BIG BED
The age at which a child is ready for a bed will vary from child to child. Estimates are from one and a half years to 3 and a half years. Probably leaving it until nearer three will give your child time to adjust and cope.
A word of caution, do not try to do this too close to when a new baby is on the way. That way lies disaster! Also be wary of a bed that is too sophisticated, eg a high bed etc, many children find this too difficult to cope with.
Again, remember that all children eventually get there and in developing countries children continue to sleep with their parents for many years. So relax and take your time.
TINA PERRIDGE'S SLEEP TIPS FOR DIFFERENT STAGES OF A CHILD'S DEVELOPMENT
HELPING YOUNG CHILDREN TO SLEEP WELL