Put Sleep Problems in a 3 Year Old to Bed

Yes, there is such a thing as sleep problems in a 3 year old. Much like adults, kids also have dreams when they're in the REM (rapid eye movement) sleep mode. This usually occurs around four to five times a night. While most dreams are quickly forgotten, some prove scary enough for children to call for their parents. Sleep problems in a 3 year old usually have to do with nightmares as this is the stage wherein their fantasy life is active.

Dealing With Sleep Problems in a 3 Year Old

It's possible that the nightmares are responses to stress or anxiety over something. Other sleep problems in a 3 year old could be triggered by changes in kids daily routines like attending a new school, death in the family or moving. It could also be that the nightmares are a response to scary or violent TV shows, movies or stories.

Sleep problems in a 3 year old that have to do with nightmares can be addressed through constant reassurance, plenty of hugs and supportive behavior. Along the way, parents should try to figure out what specific stressors triggered the nightmares and deal with them accordingly.

Here are ways to help reduce the incidence of nightmares:

• Avoid watching TV at least one hour prior bedtime to keep sleep problems at a safe distance.
• Sleep problems in a 3 year old that have to do with nightmares can usually be resolved by allowing him/her to sleep with the night light on.
• Decreasing the amount of stress in his/her young life can help get rid of the nightmares and other sleep problems.
• Avoid telling the child creepy bedtime stories as these could aggravate sleep problems in a 3 year old.
• Talk about whatever nightmares they had the night before. Parents could suggest drawing a picture to help their kids talk about the nightmare.

Sleepwalking represents another type of sleep problems in a 3 year old. These often happen a few hours after kids go to sleep. Children sleepwalking aren't fully awake. They're not aware of what they're doing. It's not necessary to wake sleepwalking kids up. Parents just need to make sure that they don't hurt themselves and put them back to bed.

Sleep problems in a 3 year old that escalate into changes in kids' daytime behaviors or personalities need to be checked out by a professional. Some children don't outgrow their toddler sleep problems and these should be a topic of concern for parents. A trained professional can help you deal with whatever sleep issues your child is grappling with.