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Sleep in its natural form is only way our bodies can re-charge. Beyond resting, sleep serves many functions including memory preservation. If your child is not receiving quality and quantity of sleep that is required (typically 8-12 hours each night is optimal), toll can be enormous. Performance in school, interacting with others and activities of daily living may diminish in quality. The origins of a sleep disturbance may range from anxiety tied to emotional conflicts, such as fear of an upcoming test or excitement over a speaking part in school play, to medical issues such as apnea. It is important that underlying issue be addressed, no matter source, to resolve sleep disturbance and give your child their best shot at life.
Remember always to take into account where your child is in their developmental stage, because some sleep issues are age-appropriate. If you have exhausted suggestions listed above, then possibly need for professional intervention is warranted. You are expert when it comes to your child and their sleep patterns. If you have a concern, trust your instinct and seek professional advice.
Dr. Charles Sophy currently serves as Medical Director for the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services. He also has a private psychiatry practice in Beverly Hills, California.
Dr. Charles Sophy, author of the “Keep ‘Em Off My Couch” blog, provides real simple answers for solving life’s biggest problems. To contact Dr. Sophy, visit his blog at http://drsophy.com.