Sleep medicine specialist Dr. Chris Winter discusses the importance of sleep for children and how societal expectations can impact sleep patterns. He emphasizes the importance of rethinking sleep education, as he believes mainstream approaches may be causing more harm than good. He introduces the concept of sleep identity, pointing out that societal expectations around sleep can inadvertently plant seeds of anxiety and false narratives in children's minds.

 

Further into the discussion, Chris shares his thoughts on co-sleeping, stressing the importance of safe practices, and presents unique, humorous strategies to handle middle-of-the-night wake-ups.

 

Lastly, the conversation touches on the impact of social media and electronic devices on sleep, drawing a parallel between the addictive nature of these gadgets and the consequential sleep disruptions they cause. Chris invites parents to consider a more empathetic and open-minded approach towards nurturing healthy sleep habits in their children.

 

Listen For

7:34 Sleep education and sleep identity

14:12 Bedtime and creating an open sleep environment

19:35 Co-sleeping

26:23 Impact of social media and devices on sleep

 

Guest: Dr Chris Winter

Website | Email | Check out Chris’ podcast Sleep Unplugged

@drchriswinter on X, IG, & TikTok

 

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