How to Ensure Your Kids are Getting Enough Sleep

 

We like to complicate things in our lives but the truth is life can be simple!  One thing we often overlook when it come to problems with our children is sleep deprivation.  Getting enough sleep is the #1 thing we can do to help our children be successful in school and life.  Sleep deprivation literally clouds our thinking and keeps us in an altered state.
So, when our children are struggling (poor grades, fighting with friends, isolation from activities, etc.) remember that sleep deprivation is often the trigger for these problems and it is an easy thing to rule out when you are trying to find the problem.  Here's a guide to make sure your child is getting enough sleep...
http://www.webmd.com/parenting/guide/sleep-children

If you don't think your child is getting enough sleep (on a regular basis) than make some changes to ensure this doesn't happen.  Here are a few ideas to get you started...
1.  No t.v or cell phones in room your child's bedroom
2.  Adhere to a strict bedtime.  If 9pm is the latest bedtime you'll accept for your children then start the process at 8:15 or 8:30-that way there's some room for negotiations ;) They can always unwind in bed with a book or magazine.