Noise reduction shades can help children get healthy night's sleep

Sleep problems are usually associated with adults, but a Loyola University pediatrician says that about 70 percent of children under age 10 experience restless sleep that can cause them stress, headaches and difficulty concentrating in school.

Dr. Hannah Chow, of the university's health system, told Newswise.com that parents should take steps to promote healthy sleep habits for their children.

"Sleep is the only time our brains have a break and are not being constantly bombarded by stimulation," she said. "Parents need to learn how to say 'no' and protect the time their children need to sleep."

According to Chow, toddlers should be getting 10 to 12 hours of sleep nightly and a one-to-three-hour nap daily. School-age children should have 10 hours of sleep and teens need nine to 10 hours.

Chow told the website that all stimulating activities should be stopped an hour before bedtime. By turning off the TV, cell phones and video games, a child's mind and body will have time to relax.

The addition of noise reduction window shades to a child's bedroom is another aid to a good night's sleep. They can block sound from traffic, nearby trains or neighborhood noise that can cause children to wake easily.