Thursday, July 8, 2010

Welcome to our blog!

Parents, thank you for joining us in this important venture. Happy reading!

Monday, November 9, 2009

Chapter 9: A Good Night's Sleep Begins in the Morning

Sleep time is NOT bedtime. Sleep time is the moment when your child is asleep. Bedtime is the time you begin your routine for preparing for bed and the final wind-down before sleep time. The author talks about the importance of catching the "window" for sleep. How in tune are you with your child's "window" for sleep?

Chapter 8: Time

In a study conducted by Dr. A. Kahn, researchers found that 58 percent of children's sleeplessness was attributed to little decisions. So what are these little things that matter so much? There are four main categories:
1. Irregular schedule
2. Light
3. Lack of exercise or exercise at the wrong time
4. Stimulants
Together they create the "ILLS" of the night. Can you pinpoint which category may be contributing to your child's sleep issues?

A shift in the schedule only one or two times a week means that 29% of the time your child's sleep is disrupted. Think about it. One decision that YOU have the power to make has the potential of cutting the tantrums by nearly a third. After reading this, what do you intend to do differently?

Chapter 7: Easing the Tension

According to Kurcinka, "If "We're running late" is your morning mantra, your family is starting the day in tense energy, and your children are going out to face the world with their reserves on "empty". What can you do to create a more calm energy in the morning for your family?

Chapter 6: Tension Triggers

Many of the "culprits" that create tension are part of our everyday lives. They're so "normal" that it's easy to miss them, but when we fail to recognize them, they can creep up on us. leaving everyone in the family wide awake and wondering why.
Identify your child's "culprits".

Chapter 2 Again

Dr. Judith Owens says, "Sleep habits are not typically considered when kids are assessed for behavioral or learning issues. Absolutely every child who's being evaluated for academic, learning, behavioral problems or ADHD should be screened for sleep issues." What's your response to this statement?

Chapter 1 Revisited

The author states that today, there is growing pressure to engage ever-younger children in a dizzying variety of activities and experiences. Have you experienced this pressure and what role do you think this has in your child's sleep habits?

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Check out author's website

Mary Sheedy Kurcinka's website is www.parentchildhelp.com. Visit and check out reviews from parents and professionals.

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Ch. 4-5

Elisabeth Kubler-Ross states, "We cannot control the wind, but we can set the sails." How do you think this relates to sleep? After reading the first five chapters, what are your plans for your family?

Thursday, October 8, 2009

Ch. 1-3

Is there a link between misbehavior and missing sleep?