Your Child's Sleep Schedule

Start with a Good Nighttime Routine

Childrens SleepIn the summer months parents often allow later bedtimes, usually compensating with sleeping in later each morning. However, getting adequate sleep once school begins is important for children of all ages as inadequate rest can lead to lowered resistance, and increased susceptibility to illness.

So exactly how much sleep should your child be getting? According to the National Sleep Foundation the amount varies by age:

  • Preschoolers (3-5): 10-13 hours each night
  • School age children (6-13): 9-11 hours each night
  • Teenagers (14-17): 8-10 hours each night

Getting a restful night’s sleep often starts with a good nighttime routine. The following are some helpful tips for establishing good sleep habits for your child:

  • Start a quiet time, such as listening to music or reading a book, 20 to 30 minutes before bedtime. TV should not be a part of the quiet time.
  • After quiet time, follow with a bedtime routine such as a changing into pajamas, going to the bathroom, and brushing teeth.
  • Set a time limit for quiet time and the routine so it does not drag on and your child knows what to expect before bedtime.
  • Say goodnight, turn off the light, and leave the room.
  • It is important for children to be put to bed awake so they learn to fall asleep themselves.
  • Security objects, such as a special blanket or stuffed animal, can be part of the bedtime routine.

Keep in mind good sleep habits won’t happen overnight and it may take several nights for your child to get used to the new plan. Start easing in to an earlier bedtime over the next few weeks so that by the first day of school your child is rested and ready to learn.

For more healthy living tips and information visit the Health Library on our website!

Continue Watching

Butternut squash and cannellini bean quesadilla

Butternut squash and cannellini bean quesadilla is a great family friendly recipe.

Bigger than a Building: Newly renovated Corewell Health Lakeland Hospital Pavilion

The newly renovated Corewell Health Lakeland Hospital Pavilion in St. Joseph focuses on high-tech modernizations and exceptional patient experiences.

How can you prepare for the cost of birth?

Are you expecting? You may have a lot of financial questions. Our financial counselors are here to help, regardless of your situation.

How can you prepare for the cost of surgery?

Planning for a surgery? Stay ahead of your health care bills by connecting with a financial counselor today.

How can financial counselors help?

If you’re concerned about your medical bills or just have questions, our financial counselors are here to help.

COVID-19 vaccine and kids

Pediatrician, Anne Dudley, DO, and Berrien County Health Department Medical Director, Rex Cabaltica, MD, discuss the COVID-19 vaccine for kids.

Tiny poke. Big impact.

Learn how to schedule your COVID-19 vaccination appointment.

Pardon our dust: Phase II Pavilion project updates

Phase II of the Pavilion project at Spectrum Health Lakeland Medical Center is now underway.

Why I vaccinated: Community member, Deborah Haynes

To help slow the spread of COVID-19 and stay protected, community members are getting a tiny poke with a big impact.

Why I vaccinated: Community member, Sharon Kuhns

To help slow the spread of COVID-19 and stay protected, community members are getting a tiny poke with a big impact.

Copyright © 2024 Corewell Health. All rights reserved.
Hospital