What Causes Sleeplessness While Teething In Child?

Brief Answer:
Sleeplessness could be due to teething - suggestions given

Detailed Answer:
Hi...sometimes during teething the child's sleep can get disturbed as the erupting teeth come out of the gums.

But this need not be the sole reason. I am herewith expounding certain good sleep hygiene habits which need to be inculcated early on -

This is the normal sleep pattern in a Toddler (1-3 yr)

Total sleep: average is 11-13 hr
Nighttime: average is 9.5-10.5 hr
Naps: average is 2-3 hr; decrease from 2 naps to 1 at average age of 18 mo

Suggestions on good sleep -

1. Have a set bedtime and bedtime routine for your child. Never change this timing or routine.

2. Bedtime and wake-up time should be about the same time. There should not be more than about an hour difference from one day to another.

3. Make the hour before bed shared quiet time. Avoid high energy activities, such as rough play, and stimulating activities, such as watching television or playing computer games, just before bed.

4. Don’t send your child to bed hungry. A light snack (such as milk and cookies) before bed is a good idea. Heavy meals within an hour or 2 of bedtime, however, may interfere with sleep.

5. Avoid products containing caffeine for at least several hours before bedtime. These include caffeinated sodas, coffee, tea, and chocolate.

6. Make sure your child spends time outside every day, whenever possible, and is involved in regular exercise.

7. Keep your child’s bedroom quiet and dark. A low-level night light is acceptable for children who find completely dark rooms frightening.

8. Keep your child’s bedroom at a comfortable temperature during the night (<24°C [75°F]).

9. Don’t use your child’s bedroom for time-out or punishment.

10. Keep the television set out of your child’s bedroom. Children can easily develop the bad habit of “needing” the television to fall asleep. It’s also much more difficult.

Regards - Dr. Sumanth

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