Sleep Solutions

According to DR SUMAYYA EBRAHIM children would have spent more than half their life asleep by the age of two years. The importance of sleep overall cannot be suffi ciently emphasised, and this is even more signifi cant in the life of little children.

- Dr Sumayya Ebrahim

For many parents, getting their little ones into a healthy sleep routine is a top priority not only for the children, but for the parents too, so that everyone is able to have a restful sleep and function well during the day. Sleep is essential to everyone, and although adults may vary on the amount of sleep they need to remain healthy, there are certain guidelines that ought to be adhered to for healthy development in children. There is a strong link between physical and psychological development and sleep. Therefore, sufficient sleep is essential for optimal development and functioning.

SLEEP AND GROW

Fundamental bodily processes are performed during sleep, including healing, rest, repair, as well as assimilation of the child’s experiences of the day. However, it is important to remember that it is not merely the amount of sleep but also the quality of sleep that is important. Getting the right balance is critical for a happy and healthy child. Children that are sleep deprived experience many adverse effects, a few of the symptoms include:

• Irritability

• Aggression

• Disturbances in appetite

• Learning difficulties

• Lack of concentration

ESTABLISHING A ROUTINE