Get on a Sleep Schedule

As my daughter Penelope, the super babysitter, will tell you, you can easily tell which children have steady sleep schedules. They go to sleep faster and go to sleep without a fuss.

Sleep specialists agree that the first step to helping sleep problems or distraction issues is a good night sleep. The best way to give them a good night sleep is to get on a schedule. If your child is giving you grief at bedtime, start with a schedule and stick to it even on the weekends. With long parent work hours and our over-scheduled lives, sleep schedules sometimes get pushed to the background.

“Sleep is the power source that keeps your mind alert and calm. Every night and at every nap, sleep recharges the brain’s battery. Sleeping well increases brainpower just as weight lifting builds stronger muscles, because sleeping well increases your attention span and allows you to be physically relaxed and mentally alert at the same time. Then you are at your personal best.”Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child, Marc Weissbluth, MD

More sleep means less distraction, a more peaceful demeanor and better performance at school. Make a commitment to get on a consistent sleep schedule for you and your child.