One in four parents find it difficult to put their children to sleep at ease as they are worried or anxious themselves and rely on strategies that may increase sleep challenges long term, a new study has shown. These parents are less likely to have a bedtime routine, more likely to leave on a video or TV show, and stay with their child until they’re asleep, according to researchers in the US. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine is crucial. When children don’t get enough rest, it can impact their physical development, emotional regulation and behavior, the scientists warned. More than a third of parents say their child wakes up upset or crying, with more than 40 per cent saying their child moves to their parents’ bed and about 30 per cent saying children insist that the parents sleep in their room. Many parents also use a nightlight or crack the bedroom door so the child isn’t in complete darkness, but parents should make sure the light does not shine directly at the child’s face. Some parents also play calming music or stories to help their child go to sleep, while others use a white noise machine or app. melatonin is a natural hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles and may be fine to use occasionally, parents shouldn’t rely on it as a primary sleep aid,” said scientists. “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
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Tuesday, May 20, 2025