7 Ways to Help Kids Sleep Better

7 Ways to Help Kids Sleep Better (1:08)

Establishing good bedtime habits is one of the more frustrating challenges for many parents. In this video, pediatrician Tanya Remer Altmann, MD, offers expert advice to parents looking to establish healthy sleep habits for their kids.

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Hi, I'm Dr. Altman. One of the most common questions I hear from parents is how to help their kids sleep better. Try these seven steps to help your little ones sleep soundly. Set a regular time for bed each night and stick to it. Establish a relaxing bed time routine for young kids so just a warm birth and a story, even older kids can benefit from a relaxing night time routine.

Make after dinner a slow down time. Too much activity before bed can keep kids awake. Avoid feeding children big meals close to bed time, avoid giving children anything with caffeine including hot chocolate and tea within six hours of bed time. Make sure your kids bedrooms are dark, cool and quiet.

Use a small night light only if necessary, keep computers and TV out of kids bedrooms. They encourage late night screen time that you can't monitor and the bright screen makes it hard to fall asleep. I'm Dr. Altman, for more ways to boost your kids health, check out all our smart tips right here.