SLEEP

SLEEP:

All children experience sleep difficulties at one point or another. Often parents wonder whether they should seek medical advice or just catch up on late night infomercials with junior. The possible medical reasons for sleeplessness are varied. Cold symptoms often lead to poor sleep for children. An ear infection is a common complication of a cold and often manifests itself in sleeplessness. Earaches usually occur part way through a cold - not in the first few days of the cold. The child will almost always exhibit other cold symptoms along with the earache.

Other possible causes of sleeplessness are teething and changes in routine such as vacations, visitors and different bedtimes. Lastly, but probably the most common cause of sleep difficulty is a behavior problem. After six months, most babies should be starting to sleep through the night and should not need many, if any, nighttime feedings.

Helping your child to learn to fall asleep on his or her own is one of the most beneficial things you can do to assist your child with sleep difficulties. Settling into a nice bedtime routine including stories and some quiet cuddling will help. Put your baby down sleepy but awake (the baby, not you) and check periodically at 10-15 minute intervals. If you need further information on sleep difficulties, a good resource is Dr. Robert Ferber's "Solve Your Child's Sleep Problems."

The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional care.
You should consult your own physician or other health care provider for specific advice and treatment,
which advice and treatment will be based upon your individual facts and circumstances.