Got a question? Our expert is here to help.
Got a question? Our expert is here to help.
My two-year-old has red circles under her eyes. Is this a sign that she’s not getting enough sleep?
Eye bags may occur for several reasons, including natural complexion, sinus congestion and insufficient sleep. If your toddler is getting less than 11 hours of sleep at night, it is extremely likely that this is the cause. International experts from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the National Health Service in the UK agree that the recommended sleep requirements at this age are 11 to 14 hours.
If you are struggling to get your child to sleep early, adopt a nightly bedtime routine. For example, aim for an early dinner at around 5.30pm to 6pm, followed by a bath and storybook time in bed. Avoid TV or other screen time in the evenings close to bedtime, as these can be too stimulating and make it harder for your toddler to fall asleep.
If she is used to sleeping at 10pm now, aim to gradually bring bedtime back by half an hour every week until she is consistently sleeping at around 8pm. In my family, my husband and I try to get the four-year-old in bed before 8pm, the seven-year-old by 8pm to 8.30pm, and the 10-year-old by 8.30pm.
Sometimes, it’s not possible, but that’s always the goal. That way, we also get some downtime together without the kids. Remember that a tired child may become more hyperactive and resistant to going to bed; her behaviour may not be a good gauge.
Is it true that toddlers shouldn’t take sweet snacks in the evening?
If given too close to bedtime, sugary snacks can affect sleep patterns. They can also lead to behavioural problems, ranging from hyperactivity, inattention to crankiness. Babies should not take any food with added sugar – including gummies or any kind of sweets – until after they turn 12 months old at least.
Even then, be careful not to give them too much processed or refined sugar. Look out for “hidden” sugars on product labels, such as fructose (fruit sugar), lactose (milk sugar), corn syrup and maltose. Although fruits are healthy, many contain high levels of fructose. Children do vary in their response to sugar intake.
My three kids usually have fruits after dinner and are fast asleep around an hour later. It depends on what your children are used to, and their metabolism. Younger kids are more likely to respond badly, whereas older children are more tolerant. Don’t forget to brush their teeth before bedtime, too.
ASK THE EXPERT
These questions were answered by Dr Natalie Epton, specialist paediatrician and neonatologist at International Paediatric Clinic. Got a question? E-mail us at magyoungparents@sph.com.sg.
