Sleep is Critical for Preschoolers
Moms and Dads know how important sleep can be.
A lack of sleep can affect your preschooler’s behavior and potentially ruin an otherwise good day at preschool. Being grouchy, experiencing low-energy, and exhibiting behavior extremes might all be warning signs that your little preschool student needs more sleep.
It’s important to establish good sleeping habits for your preschooler.
Experts all agree that sleep is critical, but also recognize that not all kids in preschool need the same amount.
Generally, preschool aged children need between 12 and14 hours of sleep every day. The majority of kids this age will have one long nap during the day and then usually go to bed between 7 and 9 p.m.
A good rule of thumb to keep in mind: Kids aged between three and six years old will normally need between 10 to 12 hours of sleep.
A Great Way to Start Your Child’s Bed-Time Routine
Here’s a great to help your preschooler learn to recognize the signs that it’s time to call it a day, and start building a foundation of good sleeping habits for your preschooler.
As bedtime draws near, ask your child how he or she feels. What are the signs that it’s time to wind down for bedtime?
Focus on these three signs:
- Yawning
- Drooping eyelids
- Feeling “heavy headed”
You should make a game of it; see how many signs your preschooler can recognize and make a rule that feeling at least two out of three means it’s time to start your sleepy-time routine
Take Advantage of Bed-time to Bond with Your Child
Take that bed-time opportunity to cuddle up with some fun books for story time.
Reading books before bed will create a good transition between active playtime and rest time. Reading should be a part of the every preschooler’s bedtime routine. Importantly, those special, quiet times with books and your undivided attention will become special memories for both you and your child.
Use these tips to establish good sleeping habits for your preschooler and ensure that they have the energy and attention to get the most out of the day.