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6 Tricks to Help Your Toddler or Preschooler Go to Bed (and Stay There!)

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Know Your Child's Sleep Requirements

Finally, take note of how much sleep your child actually needs. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) offers a recommended range depending on your child's age. According to the AAP, children ages 1-3 years need 10-13 hours of sleep each night. The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) recommends that children in that age range get 12-14 hours of sleep in a 24 hour period, including naps. The NSF also recommends between 11-13 hours of sleep for children between the ages of 3-5, including naps. Keep in mind that most children ages 5 and up do not require a nap during the day.

The NSF suggests looking for cues during the day that your child is well-rested. For example, is she alert and able to concentrate? Does she wake up naturally in the morning, or do you have to drag her out of bed? Using these indications as a guideline will help determine if your child is getting enough sleep and whether or not you need to adjust her bedtime and/or nap schedule.

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