Big Kids (6–9 years)

Set the Stage

A proper sleep environment can help your big kid get the quality sleep they need. Here are things to consider:

Noise – Children are generally insensitive to 1. extreme noise levels, but you and dad talking or the TV on can interfere with your big kid falling asleep. Be sensitive to the amount of noise you are creating.

Technology – Keep the TV and computers out 4. of the bedroom. Both can over stimulate your big kid and make falling asleep difficult.

Keep It Dry

Temperature – Most sleep scientists believe

2. a slightly cool room provides the best sleeping environment. This is because naturally our body’s internal temperature drops to its lowest level while we sleep. Keep this in mind when choosing pj’s and bedding for your big kid. Their room should be at a temperature that you are comfortable in when lightly clothed.

Slumber parties and sleepovers are a rite of passage for our big kids, but for bedwetters, it can put a real damper on things, literally! Bladder control is a complex process, and in most cases, your big kid will outgrow the problem. If bedwetting continues beyond the age of 6 or 7 or suddenly occurs out of nowhere, it is a good idea to mention it to your doctor and rule out any underlying condition such as obstruction of the urinary tract.

What can you

do? Be

Light – Sleep patterns are regulated by light supportive. Bedwetting isn’t any fun for your big kid, and they aren’t doing it on purpose. Let your big kid know it’s a normal part of growing up and won’t last forever. Also, have them help change the sheets when bedwetting occurs. Make it clear that it isn’t punishment, but rather a part of the process. Helping may also make your big kid feel better. Lastly, remind your big kid to use the bathroom one last time before going to sleep.

3. and darkness. We are sleepy when it’s dark and awake when it is light. Make sure your big kid’s room is sensitive to this. Another important thing to remember is keeping light exposure to a minimum when your big kid wakes up in the middle of the night. So, get yourself a nightlight!

Thosetweeners…still our kids, but rushing to grow-up. Our tweeners should be getting around nine hours of sleep a night. Days at school, along with after school activities and homework are all the more reason for tweeners to get their shuteye.

Tweeners (10–12 years)

Tweener Tips

Sleep problems and disorders are all too common for tweeners. Poor or inadequate sleep can contribute behavioral problems such as hyperactivity and cognitive problems, which can affect the ability to learn in school. Here are 3 ways to help your tweener get the sleep he needs:

Just like the previous stages, continue to 1. emphasize a consistent bedtime routine and sleep schedule.

2.

No TV or computers in the bedroom.

3. caffeinated beverages.

Cut out the soda or other

Good to Know

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common condition that begins in childhood and may persist into adulthood. Kids with ADHD typically have trouble sitting still, staying focused, and/or controlling their behavior and emotions. Studies have found that ADHD is linked with a variety of sleep problems such as a higher rate of daytime sleepiness and signs of sleep disordered breathing. Restless legs syndrome and periodic leg movement syndrome were also common. Treating sleep problems may improve ADHD symptoms and quality of life.

School, dances and zits are major components of the teen life. Eight to 9.5 hours of sleep is recommended for our teens, but one study found that only 15% reported getting 8.5 hours of sleep on a school night. Throw in irregular sleep patterns throughout the week and our teens can experience sleep deprivation which can be very dangerous.