Sleep

Connecting and communicating: 0-6

About Sleep (Suitable for 0-18 years)

Sleep is important for growth, immunity, learning and memory. Babies, children and teenagers need different amounts of sleep. Sleep patterns change as babies and children get older. We all move through cycles of deep and light sleep throughout the night.

Tired signs in babies and toddlers (Suitable for 0-3 years)

When you see tired signs, it’s time to reduce stimulation and settle babies and children for sleep. Newborn tired signs include pulling at ears, jerking arms and legs, and sucking fingers. Babies and toddlers show they’re tired by grizzling, demanding attention and not wanting to play.

Newborn sleep: what to expect

Newborns usually sleep 14-17 hours in every 24 hours. Newborns usually sleep in short bursts of 2-3 hours through the day and night. Newborns sleep in cycles of about 40 minutes. They often need help to settle after each cycle.

Create a regular routine

Quiet activites are good before bed. This might include a bath, brushing their teeth (with flouride toothpaste), a story and then bed. Avoid active games, playing outside, TV, video games and other screen time in the hour before bedtime.

Increasing bed time

You can get your child to bed earlier by gradually changing the time. Get them to bed 30 minutes earlier and wake them 30 minutes later.

Set a time for sleep

Have a regular bedtime and wake up time. This will help your child understand when it is time to sleep.

Why is sleep important for children?

Sleep restores your child's energy and helps them to grow and develop. The right amount of sleep can help improve behaviour, learning, health, wellbeing and weight.

Remove distractions and temptations

Try to keep TVs, computers and other portable devices out of the room where your child sleeps.

Keep your child active

Being active helps your child learn and grow. It also helps your child sleep. Spending time during the day, outside in bright sunlight, can help children sleep - but don't forget to be SunSmart.

Should my child have daytime naps?

It's normal for young children to have naps in the day. As they get older they need less sleep and fewer naps. Once your child is older than one year, a nap after 4pm can make it harder to get them to sleep at night.

A settled tummy for a settled sleep

A light snack may help some kids sleep, but a meal within 1 to 2 hours before bed is not recommended and might make them uncomfortable and keep them awake. Giving your child food or drink with caffeine in it can also keep them awake longer than you want, so it's best to avoid them.