Mothercare gives advice on getting babies to sleep
When you subscribe we will use the information you provide to send you these newsletters. Sometimes they’ll include recommendations for other related newsletters or services we offer. Our Privacy Notice explains more about how we use your data, and your rights. You can unsubscribe at any time.
Sleep is fundamental for the growth and development of babies, young children and teenagers. It is also important as it enables your body and mind to recharge, leaving you refreshed and alert when you awaken. Healthy sleep ensures your body is healthy and can defend itself from diseases and without it, your brain is unable to work properly.
Sleep is essential to one’s health.
Lack of sleep can cause a range of issues from mood imbalances to much more significant ailments.
One in three people suffers from poor sleep with stress, computers and taking work home often blamed as the causes of disrupted sleep.
The cost of a bad night’s sleep can mean more than just a bad mood and lack of focus.
Regular sleepless nights can put you at risk of many serious medical conditions including obesity, heart disease and diabetes.
Doctors and medical professionals have also linked poor sleep to a shortening of one’s life expectancy.
How do you know if you have had enough sleep?
Most people need around eight hours of sleep each night to function properly.
However, each individual is different and some need more and some less.
Generally speaking, if you wake up tired and spend all day thinking about having a nap – it is likely you are not getting enough sleep.
According to the NHS, children need the following amount of sleep according to their age:
- Babies 4 to 12 months old – 12 to 16 hours including naps
- Toddlers 1 to 2 years old – 11 to 14 hours including naps
- Children 3 to 5 years old – 10 to 13 hours including naps
- Children 6 to 12 years old – 9 to 12 hours
- Teenagers 13 to 18 years old – 8 to 10 hours.
DON’T MISS
How to reduce visceral fat: The inexpensive habit that reduces fat [INSIGHT]
‘Holiday glow’ starts a week before you even set off, study finds [EXPLAINER]
Magnesium supplement for sleep – The best forms to take to help sleep [ANALYSIS]
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests adults also need a different amount of sleep depending on one’s age.
For those aged 18 to 60, the CDC recommends adults have seven or more hours of sleep per night.
For those aged 61 to 64, seven to nine hours of sleep each night is recommended.
Seven to eight hours of sleep per night is recommended for anyone aged 65 and over.
Tips to get a good night’s sleep
- Try to have a regular routine with regular sleeping hours
- Take time to wind down before bed through calming activities such as a warm bath, relaxation exercises or reading a book
- Avoid smartphones and other electronic devices which can have a negative effect on your ability to sleep soundly
- Make sure your bedroom is a relaxing environment – ideally ensure it is dark, quiet, tidy and at a temperature between 18C and 24C
- Monitor and if necessary reduce your caffeine intake – particularly later on in the day.
Source: Read Full Article