Diwali Celebrations and Sound Sleep

• Ensure your child strikes the right balance

India

healthysoch

Chandigarh, November 10, 2023:

Festive season particularly Diwali brings joy, excitement, and a break from the daily routine. For children, these celebrations are a time of anticipation, with the promise of presents, sweet treats, and quality time with family and friends. However, the festivities often disrupt their regular sleep patterns, leaving parents concerned about maintaining their child’s well-being. This season of celebrations usually involves later bedtimes, irregular meals, and heightened excitement. These disruptions to a child’s daily routine can make it challenging to get the recommended amount of sleep, which is crucial for their physical and mental development. Therefore, it is important to balance festivities with sound sleep for children to achieve this delicate equilibrium, says Dr. Paras Kumar, Consultant Neonatologist and Paediatrician, SPARSH Hospital, Bangalore.

Here are some tips for your child for a sound sleep amidst Diwali celebrations:

• Create a calming Bedtime Routine: Establish a relaxing bedtime routine that includes activities like reading, soft music, or a warm bath. This will signal to your child that it’s time to wind down for the day and prepare for sleep. Minimize noise and disturbances in your child’s sleeping area.
• Communicate and Prepare: Talk to your child about the importance of sleep and the need for balance. Explain that sleep is essential for enjoying the festivities fully. While some flexibility is natural, maintaining consistency will help them get the sleep they require.
• Set an edge on Sugar and Caffeinated intakes: While there is no Diwali without sweets, it is highly recommended to limit its intake, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime. Parents should ensure to avoid serving sweets right before sleep to prevent a spike in energy and potential sleep disturbances.
• Manage Excitement: Help your child manage their excitement by engaging in calming activities before bedtime. A short mindfulness exercise or deep breathing techniques can be effective.
• Limit Screen Time: With the prevalence of electronic devices, children often spend more time on screens during festivals, which can disrupt their sleep due to the blue light emitted by screens. Therefore, setting a boundary on your kid’s screen time is essential for overall mental well-being

Diwali celebrations are an integral part of childhood, and they should be enjoyed to the fullest. However, striking a balance between merrymaking and maintaining a healthy sleep routine is vital for a child’s overall well-being. By implementing these tips, you can ensure that they have a joyous festive season while still getting the sound sleep they require for growth and development concludes Dr. Paras

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