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A recent study reveals that one in four parents finds it challenging to put their children to sleep, often due to their own worries and anxieties. The study, conducted by the University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, highlights that many parents rely on strategies that could exacerbate sleep issues in the long run.
According to the research, parents struggling with their children’s bedtime are less likely to have a consistent bedtime routine. Instead, they are more prone to leave on a video or TV show and stay with their child until they fall asleep. Additionally, one in five parents resorts to giving their young children melatonin, while one in three stays in the room until the child is asleep.
Melatonin, a natural hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles, can be helpful occasionally. However, the scientists caution against using it as a primary sleep aid. Sarah Clark, co-director of the Mott Poll, emphasized, “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 at the moment but could set them up for more sleep issues down the road.”
The importance of establishing a consistent bedtime routine cannot be overstated. Inadequate rest can negatively impact children’s physical development, emotional regulation, and behavior. More than a third of parents reported that their child wakes up upset or crying during the night. Over 40 percent mentioned that their child moves to their parents’ bed, and about 30 percent said their children insist on parents sleeping in their room.
To address these challenges, many parents use a nightlight or leave the bedroom door slightly open to avoid complete darkness, ensuring the light does not shine directly at the child’s face. Some parents also play calming music or stories, while others use white noise machines or apps to aid their children’s sleep.
Experts advise parents considering melatonin for their young children to consult with a pediatrician to discuss options and rule out other causes of sleep problems. Moreover, keeping electronics such as tablets or televisions out of children’s bedrooms is crucial, as the blue light from screens interferes with the natural production of melatonin.
“Families can incorporate comforting rituals to help transform nighttime fears into a calming experience,” Clark suggested.
Ultimately, the study underscores the need for parents to adopt consistent and soothing bedtime routines to help their children achieve better sleep, which is essential for their overall well-being and development.
