Keep a Sleep Diary
If you are concerned about your child’s sleep habits, talk with your child’s doctor. Keep a sleep diary to help track your child’s problem that includes the following:
- Where your child sleeps
- How much sleep she normally gets at night
- What she needs to fall asleep (for example, a favorite toy or blanket)
- How long it takes her to fall asleep
- How often she wakes up during the night
- What you do to comfort and console her when she wakes up during the night
- The time and length of naps
- Any changes or stresses in the home
Track this information for 1 to 2 weeks and bring it with you when you talk with your child’s doctor. Keep in mind that sleep problems are very common, and with time and help from your child’s doctor, you and your child will overcome them.
Additional Information from HealthyChildren.org:
- Easing Infants & Toddlers into Halloween Fun: Tips from the AAP
- Brush, Book, Bed: How to Structure Your Child’s Nighttime Routine
- Toddler Bedtime Trouble: Tips for Parents
- Healthy Sleep Habits: How Many Hours Does Your Child Need
Last Updated 10/18/2018
Source Sleep Problems in Children (Copyright © 2007 American Academy of Pediatrics, Updated 04/2013)
The information contained on this Web site should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.
