March 06, 2008

Health Tip: Putting Your Child to Bed

(HealthDay News) -- To help your child get a good night's sleep, it's important to reduce distractions in the bedroom and establish a bedtime routine.

Here are some suggestions, courtesy of the Nemours Foundation:

• Set a regular bed time for your child.
• Have the child start relaxing and doing quiet activities, such as reading or listening to music, about 30 minutes before going to bed.
• Every night, have the child use the bathroom, wash hands and brush teeth to prepare for bed.
• Do something fun but quiet together every night before bed, such as reading a book or telling a story.
• Make sure the room is a comfortable temperature.
• Don't allow a television or video games in the room.
• Encourage your child to stay in bed, and praise him or her for doing so.

-- Diana Kohnle

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