Sleep Struggles in Children - Tips, Tricks, and Real Life Stories Episode 80 S2E45:
In this episode Dr. Sylvia Bank and Dr. Vivian Carlin dive into sleep challenges in children, exploring the common disturbances that go beyond infancy. From difficulty falling asleep, frequent night wakings, early rising, to reluctance to sleep alone, they share both clinical insights and personal parenting experiences. Listeners will hear practical strategies for navigating co-sleeping, establishing healthy sleep routines, and setting realistic expectations for children and families. The doctors also discuss sleep hygiene tips, the cautious use of supplements like melatonin, and creative hacks for early risers, all while emphasizing that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution—what matters most is finding what works for your family. Whether you’re dealing with temporary phases or recurring sleep struggles, this episode provides reassurance, encouragement, and actionable advice for fostering better sleep for everyone.
Resources: Walker J, Muench A, Perlis ML, Vargas I. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I): A Primer. Klin Spec Psihol. 2022;11(2):123-137.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10002474/
EPISODE CREDITS: Hosts - Sylvia Bank, MD and Vivian Carlin, MD
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00:00 Introduction: The Chaos of Parenting & Sleep
00:34 Identifying Sleep Disturbances in Older Children
01:56 The Family Bed and Parental Exhaustion
02:39 Personal Stories: Different Kids, Different Challenges
04:23 Cultural Perspectives & Safety in Co-Sleeping
05:15 The Pallet on the Floor Strategy
08:52 The Walk Back Method
10:40 Mastering Sleep Hygiene
12:20 Sleep Tracking & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
13:14 The Melatonin & Sleep Aids
15:53 Managing the Early Riser
19:08 Closing Thoughts