old sleep

How can I make my 6yr old sleep longer?

I have 2 kids aged 3 and 6. My 3yr old sleeps for 12 hrs through the night. My eldest only sleeps for 8 hours no matter how early or late I put her to bed. Im worried that this isnt long enough as she is tiring by tea time. I have tried all kinds to encourage her to sleep more to no avail. Does anybody have any serious ideas? Is it normal for a 6yr old to sleep so little?

You’re right. She should be getting about 10hrs of sleep each night. But sleep is a very individual thing so it’s normal for each of your children to have different sleep habits.

During my early childhood certification training, I was taught that some children need naps or a rest time to sleep longer at night regardless of age. My 6yr old son is such a case. When he comes home from school, he often has a 20min rest period (I’ll read to him or he listens to a cd). Since we initiated the rest time, he sleeps longer and more soundly at night because he isn’t overtired.

If you think that’s too much, try easing her into sleep. My 7yr old daughter is kinda high-strung. When she’s really stressed, I use breathing techniques and massage before bed time to help her relax so she can fall asleep easier.

Also no beverages, tv, computer, or vigorous activity right before bed. No caffeine.

Good luck!

Nightwish – Sleeping Sun (old sound, new video)