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Daughter has trouble falling asleep

2K views 17 replies 14 participants last post by  brooklynAnn 
#1 ·
Does anyone have any advice on how to help a 12 year old learn how to fall asleep?
 
#6 ·
the usual things that work for most people: turn off things with a screen an hour before bedtime, limit fluids after dinner, a consistent bedtime, white noise machines, a bedtime ritual, sleepytime tea etc.

magnesium supplements and/or magnesium rich foods (dark leafy greens, nuts, fish etc.)
we like this one: https://www.amazon.com/Natural-Vita...1_4?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=QZDMJXA959QQ9M3X8VWZ

Relaxation yoga: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XOTGz-1vizY
i've used this one a few times before, but there's a lot of different options out there.
 
#8 ·
the usual things that work for most people: turn off things with a screen an hour before bedtime, limit fluids after dinner, a consistent bedtime, white noise machines, a bedtime ritual, sleepytime tea etc.

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White noise machine is great. We use it for our daughter. My W and I used to use it, but then we would never hear the kids in the middle of the night lol. As well, definitely cut off electronics/TV at least an hour before bedtime if there are sleep issues (or I believe there are screen filters you can use to lessen the effect of the screen). Bedtime rituals (such as sacrificing chickens) didn't work and instead seemed to upset my kids :confused:
 
#7 ·
If it's something new and she has until recently slept fine, then you should search to find out if there is a trigger. Emotional trauma, stress or certain underlying medical conditions need to be ruled out.

If that all checks out, then limit screen time and make sure they are all off at least 1 hour prior to bed time. Develop a routine, TVs, computers, phones tablets and such all get turned off and put away. Turn down lights in the house. Brush teeth, get into pajamas and read a story. Done constantly this helps prepare the body and mind for sleep.

Also, be sure the bedroom is orderly and comfortable. The bed should be a place of comfort and peace, if the room is messy it adds to stress and anxiety which will interfere with sleep.
 
#13 ·
Thanks everyone. I have been talking to my kids about screen time near bed, and they did not believe me. But maybe they will believe you! As for sports, she has a break from dance right now. So hopefully when that starts up again it will help. She is a total worry wart. Guess what she is worried about? Not being able to sleep and how that will affect school. Gee, do you think worrying will make it easier to sleep?
 
#17 ·
I had the same problem when I was her age. I was in a very demanding, new school and my brain was always on.

A sleeping mask and a good audio book on tape did me wonders. I used to listen to the BBC Sherlock Holmes with Clive Merrison. I've always loved Holmes.

I still use the sleeping mask regularly, but now I do adult colouring for an hour before bed, especially when I know I'm working a ton. I also crochet and make jewellery to de-stress.

The more I work, the harder it is to turn my brain off, unless I find ways to soothe it.
 
#18 ·
My DD never slept too much when she was in HS. She was in a demanding program and was up until 2 am. Some nights I had to insist she leave things and go to sleep. Then, she will wake up at 5 to finish her work.

Now she sleeps all day long. I think having their phones and tablets in bed makes for bad sleeping habits.

Give her some sleepy time tea before bed to see if that works. If she is still on meds, check with doc before giving her herbal teas.

When my kids were young I would give them a bath and massage every night before they sleep. My Dd still gets one every now and then. It's nice and relaxing for them.
 
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