Frequently Asked Questions
Why is sleep so important for a child?
Sleep is crucial for children and newborns due to its vital role in their physical, cognitive, and emotional development. Here are some key reasons why sleep is important for children and newborns:
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Growth and Development: During sleep, children and newborns release growth hormones that support physical development. Sleep also aids in brain development, including the formation and consolidation of memories and learning. Sufficient sleep is essential for their overall growth and maturation.
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Cognitive Functioning: A well-rested child or newborn is more alert, attentive, and able to concentrate. Sleep plays a crucial role in cognitive processes such as attention span, problem-solving, decision-making, and creativity. Sustained sleep deprivation can negatively impact a child's cognitive abilities.
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Emotional Regulation: A good night's sleep helps regulate emotions and improves mood stability in children and newborns. Insufficient sleep can lead to irritability, tantrums, and difficulty managing emotions. Quality sleep promotes emotional well-being, resilience, and a positive outlook.
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Physical Health: Sleep plays a vital role in maintaining a child's physical health. It supports the immune system, helping to prevent illnesses and infections. Adequate sleep also contributes to a healthy weight, as it regulates appetite-controlling hormones and reduces the risk of childhood obesity.
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Behavior and Learning: Rested children and newborns generally exhibit better behavior, including improved impulse control and fewer behavior problems. Quality sleep enhances their ability to focus, retain information, and perform well in school. It also enhances their capacity to learn new skills and adapt to new environments.
It's important to note that sleep needs vary depending on age. Newborns require more sleep, often 14-17 hours a day, while older children generally need 9-12 hours of sleep per night. Establishing healthy sleep habits early on and ensuring an adequate amount of sleep can have a profound impact on a child's overall well-being and development.
How can a sleep consultant help improve my child's sleep?
A sleep consultant specializes in understanding the unique sleep needs of children and can provide personalized guidance. They can help you create a consistent sleep routine, teach you techniques for soothing and calming your child, provide strategies for encouraging longer stretches of sleep, and address any sleep associations or challenges you may be facing.
Is it normal for my newborn to wake up frequently at night?
Yes, it is normal for newborns to wake up frequently during the night. They have small stomachs and need to eat frequently for proper growth and development. Additionally, newborns often experience sleep-wake cycles that are shorter than those of older babies and adults. As they mature, their sleep cycles will lengthen, and they will naturally sleep for longer stretches.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR MY INITIAL CONSULTATION?
Once you decide which plan fits you the best -or- sign up for your FREE 15 minute initial consultation, you will schedule your first consultation. Once you schedule, you will immediately receive an email with 2 links. Those 2 links are to forms that have to be completed before the first meeting. The first form is a waiver and the second form is more for us to get to know you and your child more! This will give us more time to figure out the best route to getting you and your child the sleep they deserve!