A child's sleep environment can have an important influence on the quality of their sleep. The bedroom should have fresh air and a comfortable temperature. A small night-light may be used in the bedroom, but it should be turned off after the child falls asleep. Televisions, phones, computers, game consoles, and similar electronic devices should not be kept in the bedroom.
Babies should sleep in their own crib while staying in the same room as their parents. During the toddler years, children can gradually transition from a crib to a small bed. When possible, families are encouraged to provide children with a separate room for sleeping.
Children's sleep patterns gradually become more regular from around three to five months of age. Parents should establish a consistent bedtime, generally no later than 9:00 p.m., while avoiding putting children to bed unnecessarily early. A regular sleep schedule should also be maintained during weekends and holidays.
A consistent bedtime routine can help children prepare for sleep. Parents can arrange three or four activities before bedtime, such as washing up, using the bathroom, and listening to a bedtime story. These activities should remain generally the same each day and follow a consistent, orderly, and comfortable routine. The entire routine should be kept within about 20 minutes, and by the end of it, children should ideally be in a calm and relaxed state.
Children should gradually develop the ability to fall asleep on their own. When a child is sleepy but still awake, they can be placed in their own bed rather than being put to sleep through rocking or being held. Feeding should also be separated from bedtime, with milk or food given at least one hour before the child goes to sleep. Children may be allowed to sleep with a comfort object that helps them feel secure.
When a child cries at bedtime, parents can first wait patiently for a few minutes before entering the room. Once inside, they can stay with the child briefly for one or two minutes and then leave. Parents can repeat this process while gradually increasing the amount of time between visits. This approach can help children learn to fall asleep independently and gradually develop the ability to sleep continuously throughout the night.
