By Stephen Beech via SWNS
One in four parents say their child can’t get to sleep at night because they’re worried or anxious.
More than a third of youngsters wake up crying or upset while more than 40 percent of moms and dads say their child moves to their parents’ bed during the night, according to a new study.
Researchers found that around three in 10 children under seven years old insist that mum or dad sleep in their room.
And one in five parents even give youngsters the hormone melatonin to help with bedtime while one in three stay in the bedroom until their child falls asleep.
The findings come from a health survey of 781 American parents of children aged one- to six-years-old.
Researchers found that while most families have bedtime rituals to help their little ones ease into bedtime, many rely on methods that may increase sleep challenges in the long term.
Overall, one in four parents describe getting their young child to bed as “difficult” – and those moms and dads are less likely to have a bedtime routine.
They are also more likely to leave on a video or TV show and more likely to stay with their child until they’re asleep, according to the findings of the University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital study.
The study also found that parents share common reasons behind bedtime struggles.
Nearly a quarter said their child’s sleep is often or occasionally delayed due to being worried or anxious.
Mott Poll co-director Sarah Clark said: “Our report reinforces the common struggle of getting young children to sleep.
“When this transition to bedtime becomes a nightly conflict, some parents may fall into habits that work in the moment but could set them up for more sleep issues down the road.
“Establishing a consistent bedtime routine is crucial. When children don’t get enough rest, it can impact their physical development, emotional regulation and behavior.
“Many young children go through stages when they become scared of the dark or worry that something bad might happen, causing them to delay bedtime or become distressed by parents leaving the room.
“Bad dreams or being awakened in the middle of the night can also disrupt sleep.”
She added: “Although this is a normal part of a child’s development, it can be frustrating when parents already feel tired themselves at the end of the day.
“Parents should find a balance between offering reassurance and comfort while maintaining some boundaries that help ensure everyone – both kids and adults – get adequate sleep.”
Most parents polled said they have a “bedtime routine” for their child, often including brushing teeth, reading bedtime stories and/or bathing.
Less than half say their child has a drink of water or snack, turns off devices, prays and talks about their day.
Other bedtime habits include holding a blanket or stuff animal or sucking a pacifier or fingers.
But nearly two-thirds of parents said children staying up to play was a major factor in delaying sleep.
Not only does having a consistent bedtime routine help make the nighttime transition smoother, experts say it also provides one-on-one time, allowing the child to get their parent’s full attention.
Clark said: “A predictable bedtime routine provides a sense of security and comfort and signals to the child that it’s time to slow down.
“Knowing what to expect next can reduce anxiety and help children feel safe and relaxed.
“Having this dedicated time with parents also promotes bonding and emotional connection, creating positive associations with bedtime.”
She added: “Although melatonin is a natural hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles and may be fine to use occasionally, parents shouldn’t rely on it as a primary sleep aid.
“Parents who are considering giving melatonin to their young child should consult with their pediatrician to discuss options and rule out other causes of sleep problems first.”
Doctors recommend that, in general, children ages one- to two–years-old should get 11 to 14 hours of sleep with naps while the amount of recommended sleep decreases slightly from age three to six.
Clark says that if children are taking longer to fall asleep at nap time, resisting naps or suddenly having difficulty falling asleep at night or waking up earlier than usual in the morning, it may be time to drop the nap.
She added: “Parents may need to adjust sleep routines gradually to transition to changes to a child’s sleep patterns.”
