Nightmare scenario…
Research from the University of Montreal says that although nightmares aren’t that common among preschoolers, when they do occur they’re often linked to what kind of temperament your child displayed when he was a baby. It turned out that children whose moms described them as anxious babies who cried frequently and were difficult to settle, were more likely to suffer from bad dreams as they got older.
As many parents will know, nightmares can disturb a child’s sleep and wake parents – it’s thought that up to 50% of 3-5 year olds have nightmares that are severe enough to disturb their parents. Nightmares tend to peak at around 10 and then decrease, although they can persist into adulthood.
Bad dreams in adulthood have long been associated with stress and emotional disturbances and this new research seems indicate a strong link in babies too. Researchers suggest that a more protective parenting style could help ease early anxiety symptoms and prevent them from developing into nightmares as children reach the preschool years.
Follow these tips from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) to help your child sleep better…
1 Follow a consistent bedtime routine
Set aside 10 to 30 minutes to get your child ready to go to sleep each night.
2 Establish a relaxing setting at bedtime
Keep the lights as dim as possible and don’t read story books that involve activities or interactions that could leave your child wired instead of drowsy.
3 Interact with your child at bedtime
Don't let the TV, computer or video games take your place.
4 Wind them down gradually
Keep your children from TV programs, movies, and video games that are not right for their age.
5 Let them settle themselves
Don’t let your child fall asleep while being held, rocked, fed a bottle, or while nursing.
6 Watch that bedtime drink…
Don’t allow your child to have foods or drinks that contain caffeine (this includes chocolate and soda). Try not to give him or her any medicine that has a stimulant at bedtime (this includes cough medicines and decongestants).
Parents who suspect that their child might be suffering from a sleep disorder are encouraged to consult with their child's pediatrician or a sleep specialist.