Sleep is an essential building block for your child’s mental and physical health. But if you are finding it impossible to help your toddler sleep, you are not alone. The American Academy of Pediatrics estimates that sleep problems affect 25 to 50 percent of children and 40 percent of adolescents. The trouble with a child who is missing sleep is that their behavior can be confusing. It’s hard to believe that the real culprit behind a temper tantrum is lack of sleep. If your child is misbehaving, it is important to consider the possibility that they are lacking in adequate sleep.  

Average sleep needed by age:

• Babies who are sleeping less than 14-16 hours in a 24 hour period.
• Toddlers who are sleeping less than 13 hours in a 24 hour period.
• Preschoolers who are sleeping less than 12 hours in a 24 hour period.
• School-aged children who are sleeping less than 10 hours in a 24 hour period.
• Adolescents who are sleeping less than 9.25 hours in a 24 hour period.

Children rarely tell you that they are tired.  Instead, they get wired, which escalates into an excess of energy and unless they get adequate sleep, the challenging behavior will likely continue.

The following can be signs of sleep deprivation:

Difficulty managing emotions: Children have to work hard to manage their emotions, slow their bodies, and calm themselves.  Without enough sleep, this can be even more difficult.  

Difficulty controlling the body and impulses: As children experience consistent overtiredness, they become less able to control their behaviors. They may hit and throw things; they may resist naptime and bedtime may become more challenging.

Inability to stay focused and to perform well:  An overtired child will often seek out stimulation and change focus in order to stay alert. 

Difficulty getting along with others:  Successful social interaction requires the ability to manage emotions, follow social rules, and process information. This requires a lot of skill building and emotional processing and can become difficult when a child is not getting adequate sleep.  

Routine is key.

Sleep needs change as your child grows, but whether you’re dealing with a toddler or a teenager, research shows that a consistent bedtime routine is helpful for making sure your child gets enough sleep. Regardless of which activities you choose, try to be consistent so your child knows what to expect.

A typical bedtime routine might include:

• Turning off computers, TV screens, video games, and other bright lights.
• Putting on pajamas and brushing teeth.
• Reading books, singing, or taking a bath.
• For toddlers, making sure they have their favorite stuffed animal or blanket for snuggling. 

Benefits of adequate sleep.

Your child’s brain needs sleep to restore resources that were used up during the day. A well-rested brain can solve problems, learn new information and enjoy the day a lot more than a tired brain. Certain areas of your child’s brain are even more active while they sleep!

Children who consistently get a good night’s sleep:

• are more creative.
• can concentrate on tasks for longer.
• have better problem-solving skills.
• are better able to make positive decisions.
• are able to learn and remember new things.
• have more energy during the day.
• can create and maintain good relationships with others.

Many times, sleep deprivation can be behind challenging behaviors; remember that behavior is communication so consider that the lack of enough sleep may be a possible factor in your child’s behaviors.