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Sleep Disorders in Kids
Children can suffer from sleep disorders, much like adults. Sleep disorders are basically problems in the way a person sleeps. Some of the most common complaints include trouble falling asleep, sleepwalking, night terrors and snoring. Children often show signs of sleepiness or have trouble functioning during the day when they have sleep disorders.
What is a Paediatric Sleep Disorder?
Children who suffer from paediatric sleeping disorders suffer differently. Some have trouble falling or staying asleep, while others are inflicted with more worrisome problems such as sleepwalking. Sleeplessness in children can be caused by different factors such as stress or pain. Sometimes, physiological problems like obstructive sleep apnea can cause sleep problems in children.
What Are the Different Types of Paediatric Sleeping Disorders?
There are many different sleeping disorders that have been diagnosed amongst children:
Sleep Apnea: Children who suffer from enlarged tonsils or obesity usually develop a sleep disorder called 'Sleep Apnea'. Some of the symptoms of this disorder include restlessness, snoring, frequent awakening, pauses in breathing, and daytime sleepiness.
Restless Sleep / Periodic Limb Movement Disorder: Children who have poor or restless sleep often suffer from drowsiness the next day. They have particularly limp hands and feet. There is research that suggests a link between ADHD and Periodic Limb Disorder. In most cases, this is due to iron deficiency.
Insomnia: One of the most commonly heard of sleeping disorders out there, insomnia is a condition where people have trouble sleeping. This often leads to irritability, hyperactivity, mood swings, depressed mood and sometimes even aggressiveness in a person.
Narcolepsy: Children with narcolepsy tend to have the urge to fall asleep several times throughout the day. Their sleep could last from a few seconds to several minutes. Narcolepsy is a chronic sleep disorder caused due to the inability of the brain to regulate sleeping and waking cycles.
Nightmares: Nightmares are common among children between the ages of three to six years. The child may dream of danger or an instance that is scary.
Night Terrors: A child who suffers night terrors never fully awakens from their sleep. Very often, the child will sit up in bed and scream or cry in their sleep, acting out their dream.
Somniloquy / Sleep Talking: Talking whilst fast asleep is called 'somniloquy' and can range from simple sounds to long winding speeches.
Somnambulism / Sleepwalking: Walking while asleep is called 'somnambulism' and on occasions, the child may speak things that don’t make sense while sleepwalking. The child's eyes are open but unfocused or glassy.
How Much Sleep Does a Kid Need?
Everyone needs sleep and children are no exception. In fact, younger children need to sleep more as their brains are developing at an extraordinary rate. As a child grows, their sleep requirements begin to change:
One to Four Weeks Old: Infants of this age group should sleep for an average of 16-17 hours a day.
One to Four Months Old: Infants of this age group sleep for an average of 16-17 hours a day. At this age, their sleep cycles begin, with them sleeping longer at night.
Four Months to One Year: Babies of this age need around 14-15 hours of sleep every day.
One to Three Years: Toddlers need about 12-14 hours of sleep every night.
Three to Six Years: Children of this age need approximately 11-12 hours of sleep per night.
Seven to Twelve Years: Children of this age group need about 10-12 hours of sleep every night.
Thirteen to Eighteen Years: Teens of this age require about eight to ten hours of sleep.
What Are the Signs of Sleep Problems in Kids?
Sleep problems can compound over the years and cause long-term sleep disorders like insomnia and narcolepsy.
Excessive Daytime Sleepiness (EDS): Extreme sleepiness during the day is a sign that your child may have a sleeping disorder. Children with these problems often have a general lack of energy throughout the day. Common sleep disorders with EDS symptoms are narcolepsy, sleep apnea, and restless leg syndrome.
Trouble Sleeping: Children who often complain about not being able to go to sleep or have trouble staying asleep most likely suffer from insomnia. These children may sometimes even wake up much earlier than is required. Insomnia in children can be caused by stress, pain, or mental disorders.
Snoring: Some children who snore may have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which can be caused by respiratory infections, nasal congestion, a deviated septum or enlarged tonsils.
Bedwetting: Many children wet their beds and so this is not often a cause for concern. It is only considered a disorder if your child is older than five years and wets their bed at least two times a week. Low bladder control, emotional distress or developmental lags could be reasons for bedwetting. Bedwetting, as well as daytime drowsiness in a child, could be a sign of 'Obstructive Sleep Apnea'.
Complications of Sleep Disorders or Sleeplessness in a Child
Complications associated with sleep disorders fall into two categories:
Psychiatric Complications: There is a reciprocal relationship that occurs between sleep disorders and psychiatric disorders. For example, when a child who is diagnosed with recurrent depression becomes worse, sleep problems often increase simultaneously. However, disrupted and inadequate sleep alone can produce behavioural, effective and cognitive problems.
Medical Complications: Dyssomnias (disturbances in the quantity, quality, or timing of sleep) are believed to be a result of central nervous system (CNS) abnormalities that alter the sleep process. Youths with substance use disorders are a good example of how difficult it may be to distinguish a primary sleep disorder from those medically induced conditions.
Treatment and Medication to Treat Sleep Disorders in Children
There are so many reasons why your child could develop sleeping disorders, right from stress to physical problems. There are different ways to deal with this and get a handle on the situation. Some basic tips include a consistent bedtime and calm sleeping environment. However, as a parent, you need to update yourself on the disorder and the various approaches used to treat it.
Medication: Medication like Neupro and Mirapex have been known to help deal with issues like restless leg syndrome.
Chronotherapy: This technique employs gradual shifting of sleep timings to help reset the biological clock of your child. Studies show that patients have been able to end chronic dependence on medication with this method.
Adenotonsillectomy: Research has shown that removing the tonsils in children can significantly improve sleep. This is because of fewer respiratory issues faced by the child.
Tips to Help Your Child Sleep Better
Below are some tips that you can try at home to help your child sleep better:
Be Consistent with Bedtime: Set a regular bedtime for your child and do not stray away from it. Similarly, the wake-up time should remain consistent. On weekends, try not to allow your child to sleep in longer than an hour past their usual wake-up time.
Establish a Soothing Bedtime Routine: A warm bath and reading a bedtime story can really help your child sleep better. A glass of warm milk and honey also does wonders.
No Caffeine Before Bedtime: Avoid giving your child any food or drinks that contain caffeine less than six hours before bedtime. This includes chocolate milk as cocoa beans contain caffeine.
Light Dinner: Try not to give your child a large meal too close to bedtime as this interferes with digestion, thus resulting in uneasy sleep.
Relaxing Playtime After Dinner: Avoid physical or mental activities right before bedtime as they can keep children awake. Try indulging your child in more calm activities such as reading or drawing.
Avoid Distractions: Turn off the television and radio while your child is going to sleep. Cell phones and computers should also be set aside at this time to avoid your child becoming distracted.
Create the Right Ambience: Ensure that the temperature in your child's bedroom is comfortable and that the room is dark. Keep the noise level in the house as low as possible.
Develop Healthy Sleeping Habits: Avoid allowing your child to fall asleep in your arms or in any room they happen to be in. If you notice your child is tired, regardless of whether they are asleep or not, you should put them to bed. It is also best to not get into bed with your child to help them sleep.
Paediatric sleep problems in children cause many children to become tired and cranky. They also lead to behavioural problems at home, in school and amongst their friends. If you feel your child may have a sleeping disorder, be sure to follow the tips mentioned to above. If all else fails, speak to your paediatrician who can prescribe medication for your child having trouble sleeping.
Also Read: Overcoming Insomnia - Sleeping Disorder In Children Read more
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Return Gift Ideas for Your Child's Birthday Party
My child's birthday was near and I was thinking about the returns gifts. I couldn't understand what should I give in return to my son's friends. I realised that choosing an appropriate return gift for my son's birthday party was a tough job. If you don't want to spend a fortune, still want to buy thoughtful and useful gifts for your child's friends, then here are some suggestions.
1. Utility Gifts
Lunch Boxes - A lunch box can make for a wonderful return gift and surely your child's friends would love receiving it as a gift. You can also add a cookie or a cake pop to it. They will be extremely happy.
Pencil Boxes - Kids love writing with new pens and pencils. If you give them pencil boxes as return gifts with all the necessary stationery like a pencil, pen, eraser, sharpener, and ruler. They will be more than happy on receiving such a thoughtful gift.
Piggy Banks - When I was a child I used to love collecting coins in my piggy bank. So, I thought piggy banks would make for perfect return gifts.
2. Watches
No, you don't need to buy branded watches for each and every child because kids get bored of wearing the same thing. You can buy inexpensive colourful watches for kids. On receiving the gifts, they will have a big smile on their faces.
3. Books
It's always a good idea to inculcate reading habits in children. So how about giving books as return gifts? Give a book to each child who attends your child's birthday party. You never know, it might encourage them to read books. As a child, I enjoyed reading books of Enid Blyton, Ruskin bond, Dr. Seuss, etc. You can choose the books by these authors or look on the internet to explore your options.
4. Photos
This is something I did for my son's first birthday. It wasn't a grand affair and I had invited only close family members. I had made sure that each family member has a picture with my son. I got those pictures framed and wrapped them. It was a delight to see their happy faces on opening their gift. It's something that will remain with them for the longest time. You can do that for your child's birthday party too. Instead of taking individual pictures, click a group picture of your child and his friends. Later you can get copies created of the same and gift them to all the children.
5. Chocolates
An attractive box of chocolates is loved by all - be it kids or adults. So buy small boxes of chocolates and give them as return gifts to your child's friends.I hope you like these options and would consider one of the above for your child's birthday.
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her.
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How to Break the News about your Divorce to Loved Ones
Even the most amicable of separations can create an earth-shattering change for your near and dear ones. Thinking about how to divulge divorce details less painfully, delays the breaking of this news in most cases. However, doing so as soon as you have made up your minds will cause your loved ones minimum pain.
The second most difficult thing after making your mind for divorce is how to tell your family that you are getting one. It’s a very difficult time, and you both need the support of your loved ones more than ever. But with so many emotions in the mix, revealing the news of your divorce can go wrong. Here are some tips that may help you if you are in a fix.
Breaking the news about divorce
Timing is very crucial. Be careful about when you are informing your family members about your impending divorce. Start with your parents and in-laws together, or separately, and then to other family members who you think should know why you both are planning to call it quits. Avoid giving out divorce details, unless and until it’s really important, for they are your parents and it will be very difficult for them to know the reasons for which their kid’s world has come crashing down. Let them know that you both have tried your best to save the marriage, but in vain. Be extremely calm and patient and explain that reconciliation is something that you both are not considering and that it’s better to end the marriage rather than worrying about it and being unhappy.
Keep Calm
Try to remain as collected as you can, and avoid playing the blame game. Do not show your partner in the negative light. If you have kids involved, ask your set of parents to avoid talking negative about either of you, as this may leave a strong impact on their tender minds. Let your kids know that you are breaking up as partners and not as parents and that both of you will be equally available for them when they need you.
Things to Do when You Get Divorced
Keep Your Kids in the Know
There are a lot of things to take care of when you decide to get divorced. Be on friendly terms with each other for the sake of yourselves and your children. Remember, you are still their parents and make sure you don’t ever let them feel that they are not needed by either one of you. Spend some time together and make sure they don’t even feel that their parents are separated till the time they are young. Be ready to answer a number of questions from your kids and give them honest answers.
Expect Some Support from Friends
Politely refrain from divulging the causes of the divorce and use some discretion even if you are talking about it to your close friends. Acknowledge that it’s a stressful time and that you need some privacy. Let go of all the negative feelings that you have against your ex-husband and show some respect in order to keep the divorce from becoming more difficult than it has to be.
Dealing with a failed marriage is not easy. Ask for suggestions from friends and family members to cope with the situation if you want. Try coming out of it as early as possible, and the best thing you can do is come to terms with the changes that have happened. Professional counselling is also a good way to deal with the impact of a divorce. Try to get the divorce peacefully, as this might be the last thing you do together, ever. Read more
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How Make Believe Activities in Kindergarten Help Kids Grow
It was just a while ago that your baby was born and you couldn’t believe your eyes. Time will pass rather fast and soon you will see your kid in kindergarten. In due course of time, your kid will cross several milestones and will be perfectly ready for the outside world. Kindergarten is a place where your kid will put the first step towards a professional life. It will be filled with other kids and thus will give your kid a chance to enhance his social skills. Kindergarten has planned activities for your kid’s perfect development and they will make sure that he is ready for the next phase of life.
The “make believe” activity in kindergarten is an essential activity that boosts your kid’s imaginative thinking and unlocks his creative side. The activity might also enable your kindergartner to enhance problem solving skills. These are essential life skills and must not be missed. You as a parent can contribute a lot in making this activity a common one. Your kid can practice the same at home and in kindergarten. The ultimate aim is to supplement your kid with many life skills.
So, how can make believe activities help your kid grow? Scroll below to know how.
1. Different Roles & Characters
By now, your kid will know of different countries and cultures. Use the same knowledge to transform him into a different character, say dressing him up in traditional attire or cartoon attire. This will give your kid’s imagination a huge leap which will benefit in the long run. This kind of make believe activity will also boost your kid’s literacy.
2. Stretch The Ending
At kindergarten age, your kid will spend a lot of time in fantasy stories and tales. Kindergarten’s make believe activity will stretch the ending of each fantasy story and let your kid imagine what happens next. It’s like a sequel of a movie being thought. “What happens after the rabbit wins the race?” These kinds will help your kid think beyond and ahead. Planning capabilities will be nurtured with such an exercise. ||
3. Home Alike
Often, kindergartens make believe activity might end up at home. Suddenly your kid may take up your role and start instructing all. A gang of her friends may also come along and they may form a family. This activity will actually bring out a mature side in your kid. Role reversal may benefit your kid to a great extent. For example, it will improve your kid’s understanding about life.
4. Know Others
This kindergarten activity comprises of dressing up your kid like a doctor, nurse or an army man. This dress code will make your kid know what those roles are and how they add value to life. Your kid will know the meaning of respect through this activity.
Overall, kindergarten’s make believe activities will help your child develop personality and character. Good values will be instilled and also manners will be learnt. Read more
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
6 hours ago
Q. Hi,
I delivered my baby through c section on 12th March 2024. My bleeding stopped post that after 15 days. But I observed light spotting yesterday. Is that something serious and what could be the reason?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
6 hours ago
A. ok upto six weeks. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Nikitha has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 1 month
4 hours ago
Q. Hello..
I am 9 month pregnant.. I want to know I have to pack in hospital bag ?
please answer
Nikitha
Mom of a 9 yr 5 m old boy
4 hours ago
A. hello you can carry the basic things like baby clothes and skin care product like babyhug and also you should carry diaper for the baby to use initially which all would be of help and you can also carry quick dry which also would be of help too
Nikitha has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 5 months
2 hours ago
Q. hello good afternoon ma'am, Mera 1st trimester khtm ho gya h ,4th month chal raha hai actually mjhe kch dino se bhuk ni lgti h ,khana dkh k Mann ni krta h khane ka toh mai aap kch solution btaye
Nikitha
Mom of a 9 yr 5 m old boy
2 hours ago
A. hello it s normal during the pregnancy and it is absolutely nothing to worry and try to have small meal frequently and avoid taking a large meal at a time which can help you and any concern you can talk with you doctor she can guide you accordingly
Abhaya Rajput has added a new answer
Mom of a 8 m old child
2 hours ago
Q. mera baby 10 month ka ho gya h abi tk khada ni ho para kya jru
Abhaya Rajput
Mom of a 14 yr 4 m old boy
2 hours ago
A. Hello there ma’am please do not worry about it too much. Babies start to stand between the age of 9 months to thirteen months. Please wait for sometime before consulting a doctor. Please give semi solid food items like banana and mashed potatoes and mashed apples to the baby. Also give suji kheer and daal paani to the baby. Continue giving formula milk to the baby. You can also give mashed idli to the baby. Masaage baby legs with BabyHug coconut oil.
Thanks and take care
shilpi Bhandari has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
51 mins ago
Q. assembly job vacancy in firstcry store
shilpi Bhandari
Mom of 2 children
18 mins ago
A. hello dear this u need to ask them personally on call ot u can mail them as it is a parenting app so u can't right guidance on this here
Sai Prasanthi R L has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
12 mins ago
Q. Hello doctor,
my son is 2.5 months old and completely on breastfeeding. He hasn't pooped since three days. please advise
Sai Prasanthi R L
Mom of a 10 yr 2 m old boy
New Answer
A. Hello dear parent! Exclusively breastfed babies sometimes do not pass stools even for a week. It is alright as long as baby is healthy and active, not showing any symptoms of discomfort. Keep Babyhug tummy roll on handy. Consult your doctor for further assistance
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