The amount of sleep a child needs changes over time and can vary dramatically from child to child. Your child will feel refreshed in the morning if they are getting adequate sleep.

Bedtime and wake up time should be about the same (i.e. not vary more then one hour) on school and non-school nights.

Make the hour before bedtime shared quiet time. Avoid stimulating activities (e.g. rough play, video games). Develop bedtime rituals.

Avoid activities that depend on a parent's presence such as holding the child until asleep.

Letting children cry themselves to sleep is not recommended. Teach them to soothe themselves by using transitional objects (e.g. stuffed animal, blanket, picture of parent).

Make your child's bedroom comfortable, quite and dark. A night-light is ok. Keep the television set out of your child's bedroom.

Make sure your child gets regular exercise. Avoid heavy exercise within 2-3 hours of bedtime.

Do not send your child to bed hungry. A light snack before bed is good, but avoid large meals within 2-3 hours of bedtime.

Avoid caffeine (e.g. soft drinks, chocolate), especially after noon.

Do not use your child's bedroom for time out or punishment.

Waking up at night can become a bad habit. Limit contact with parents, feeding and toys that will reward the child for being awake.