0
0
A recent report from the Mott Poll has found that anxiety and worry disrupt sleep for one in four young children, impacting their overall health and development. The study highlights the significant challenges parents face in ensuring their children receive adequate rest.
Findings from the Mott Poll
The nationally representative survey included responses from 781 parents regarding their children’s sleep habits. The data revealed that children between the ages of one and six often experience bedtime anxiety, leading to sleep disturbances. Poor sleep can affect mood, brain development, increase the risk of excess weight, and even impact parents’ own sleep and well-being.
To help their children fall asleep, over 60% of parents use a night light, 14% leave the door slightly open for additional light, and one in four prefer a completely dark room. While nearly 40% of parents ensure a quiet sleeping environment, others rely on soft music (15%), white noise (33%), or television/videos (13%) to ease their children into sleep. Additionally, about 31% of parents frequently, and 19% occasionally, stay in the room until their child has fallen asleep.
Bedtime Struggles
Over 27% of parents find bedtime challenging. Those who struggle with putting their children to bed are less likely to follow structured bedtime routines and are more likely to use television or videos to soothe their children. Many also remain in the room until their child is asleep.
Children’s sleep can be disrupted due to various factors, including playing late (65%), anxiety (23%), and household noise (43%). Among those experiencing sleep disturbances, 36% often wake up crying, 43% move to their parent’s bed, and 31% insist on a parent staying in their room.
Parental Responses and Expert Recommendations
To address sleep issues, 19% of parents have administered melatonin to their children, while 15% have sought advice from healthcare providers. The report underscores that before using melatonin, parents should consult a pediatrician.
Experts suggest that parents set aside time before bedtime to discuss their child’s day and provide reassurance. Establishing a consistent sleep routine, addressing nighttime wake-ups calmly, and reducing exposure to frightening content can significantly improve sleep quality by decreasing the frequency of nightmares.
Conclusion
The Mott Poll findings emphasize the importance of recognizing and managing childhood anxiety at bedtime. With structured routines and parental support, sleep disruptions due to worry and anxiety can be mitigated, fostering better health and development for young children.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Parents should consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized recommendations regarding their child’s sleep and anxiety concerns.
