Try out these suggestions to help improve your child’s sleep.

National Sleep Awareness Week was March 11th-17th.  While this week has already passed, there’s no reason why you can’t focus on improving your child’s sleep schedule.  Here are some suggestions that you can try to help your little one get the healthy sleep that they need.

  • Establish a Bedtime Routine

Having a consistent bedtime routine is an important part of establishing successful sleep habits.  Having a routine can help your child wind down and prepare for sleep.  Some great pre-bedtime activities include reading a book, having a warm bath, and singing a specific song.  This familiar routine can help your child feel more calm and lets them know what to expect every night before sleeping.

  • Create a Good Sleep Environment

Your child’s sleep environment can have a huge impact on their sleeping patterns.  To ensure that your child is getting all the restorative sleep that they need, watch the temperature, remove any potential distractions, and avoid introducing too much light into their room.  Taking these precautions can ensure that your child gets the uninterrupted sleep that they need each night.

  • Offer a Comfort Item

A comfort item provides a sense of security that can enable your child to fall asleep more easily.  Usually, comfort items are tangible items that a child can hold as they fall asleep.  Common comfort items include stuffed animals, special blankets, or other soft toys.  Establishing a comfort item for your child might make it easier for them to fall and stay asleep throughout the night.

Try out these suggestions to help your child get the sleep they need to stay healthy.  At the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley, we understand the importance of encouraging healthy habits.  Contact us to learn more about all of our after-school programs and to choose the best program to fit your child’s needs.