Why does the baby have sleep problems? What should parents do with child sleep problems? How do you make a child sleep at night? Dr. Kaustav Banerjee (a paediatrician) offered advice on child care and how to get your child to sleep comfortably.
Dr. Kaustav Banerjee highlights the importance of cultivating healthy sleep habits not only for children but for everyone. Each child's sleep pattern is unique, with infants typically sleeping 14–15 hours, gradually decreasing as they age to around 8–9 hours in adolescence. The quality of sleep significantly influences physical and cognitive development in children.
For newborns, establishing a routine becomes crucial within the first three months. As children start attending school, the recommended sleep duration is between 10 and 12 hours per night. Breaking habits like watching TV or using mobile devices before bedtime is essential.
Nutrition plays a significant role in sleep patterns. Children who eat well tend to sleep better. It's observed that restricting a child's food intake may lead to frequent waking during the night. Therefore, maintaining a consistent and healthy diet throughout the day is vital for a child's sleep and overall development.
Avoiding excessive mobile phone usage is emphasised, as prolonged exposure to radiation can impact sleep. Weight, dietary habits, and communication skills are directly and indirectly affected by these factors. Encouraging regular communication with children, rather than keeping them occupied with mobile devices, helps in building stronger bonds and mitigating potential issues.
Balancing protein and carbohydrate intake is essential for establishing healthy sleep and lifestyle habits. Regular meal times should be maintained to synchronise with the child's daily routine. Additionally, minimising mobile phone usage at least one hour before bedtime is recommended, especially for children aged eight to ten.
Dr. Banerjee stresses the need for a conscious effort to shape children's sleep and lifestyle habits. Prioritising protein-carbohydrate balance in their diet and monitoring physical well-being alongside academic progress contributes to overall healthy development.
In conclusion, adopting these practices contributes to fostering a positive sleep environment for children and promotes a holistic approach to their well-being.