At times, parents would have to bear the brunt of sleep issues concerning their children. Such a setup is only common considering no parent in his right mind can sleep soundly knowing that his child is having problems getting that much needed sleep.
But the issues surrounding the sleep disorders that most kids have today are for real. Normally, parents would let it go and consider it as part of some reaction towards medicine or hereditary behavior. Not all parents are doctors or sleep specialists to conclude such things and it would be best to seek the advice of specialists who know more about this sleep dilemma that often bugs us.
Another common mistake is putting their children to bed too late at night. Drewek said kids between the ages of 2 and 4 need 11 to 13 hours of sleep each night.
Sleep deprivation in children often manifests itself as hyperactivity, Drewek said, which sometimes leads to a misdiagnosis of hyperactivity disorder. That diagnosis can lead to unnecessary medication.
Her best advice is for parents to keep their pediatricians advised of their children’s sleep habits. Nap time and bedtime routines also should be established to support consistent sleep.
(Source) The Arizona Republic
