Understanding the Connection Between Sleep & Behavior

  • The Slow-to-Adapt Child has difficulty shifting from one thing to another. This child needs consistent bed and awakening times to help set his body clock for sleep. Preparation is key. He needs fair warning and cues that bedtime is approaching so that he can begin the transition to sleep. Cue him with activities such as dimming the lights, pulling the shades and putting away toys. Changing his pre-bedtime routine is upsetting to him. Build in time for him to awaken slowly in the morning.
      

  • The Irregular Child is unpredictable; she never falls asleep at the same time of day and easily becomes sleep deprived. Though she seems to resist it, the Irregular Child needs to be gently nudged toward a schedule. Create a routine and provide gentle but firm support to help her move toward regular sleep. Once she has adapted to a schedule, stick with it.
      

  • The High-Energy Child is always on the move. This child is notorious for his "short window" for falling asleep. Miss this window and his system will charge up again. An unfailing schedule helps him "earmark" that window and wind down his nonstop activities. This is also a child who needs exercise during the day.


    • At the End of the Day


    What all parents need to remember most about kids and sleep is that children are not fighting you when they can't sleep; they are battling their own bodies. You can recognize what your child needs to achieve sleep and, ultimately, teach him to reach that state on his own.


    By understanding the three factors - tension, time and temperament - you can foster an environment that encourages sound sleep and makes it a priority. The result will be enhanced health, productivity and enjoyment in each other's company.


    Mary Sheedy Kurcinka is a family educator and author of the landmark book Raising Your Spirited Child (Harper Paperbacks, 1998), and most recently Sleepless in America: Is Your Child Misbehaving or Missing Sleep? (HarperCollins, March 2006).


    Children are not fighting you when they can't sleep; they are battling their own bodies.


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