 The
transition to school will mean a great change to a little
persons most important gauge - their routine. As parents
we must be aware of the stresses this interruption to their
routine can bring to bear on our little people and try
to give them the support necessary to make the change as
seamless as possible.
Possibly the most obvious sign of change
the child is experiencing is that of tiredness. It is amazing
how tired and cranky they can get when changes occur in
the way their day is structured.
To try and alleviate this problem, have
a look at your routine at home before they start school.
Some tips
- Have a strict bedtime routine, working out a time your
little person should be in bed.
- Always discuss it so they understand what is expected
from them. Foe example you might say that after 'Rugrats'
we will have a story then its bedtime. And stick to it.
- Mornings are a chaotic time for most families trying
to get out of the door, when your child is starting school,
identify and set out your routine with your partner and
child.
- Other issues such as breakfast and lunch preparation,
T V and travelling time are important to address.
Pre-school aged children are extremely
busy little people. Their play is their work and can be
quite taxing on their bodies. This combined with early
morning starts mean that, for many, a sleep during
the day is essential.
At times getting them to understand this
fact is another story altogether. Isn't it strange that
the more they need a sleep, then the more the amount of
resistance to closing their eyes increases? This problem
is sometimes compounded in a childcare situation where
the environment is more foreign. A child who sleeps
well in her own bed may not be able to be comfortable enough
to sleep in another situation.
When considering rest requirements for
your child, a few guidelines need to be remembered:
A child's sleep requirement will vary
as they grow and develop. All children are different; some
require more sleep than others of the same age. Be guided
by your child's needs. Older children, 4 to 5 years old
- may not require a sleep in the middle of the day but
do require a quite time.
Children thrive on routine,
it gives them security in the knowledge of what happens
when and what their role is. Therefore it is important
to develop with your carer and partner a manageable routine
and ensure that it is adhered to as much as possible.
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