Dutch children sleep longer than those in other countries. On average, Dutch babies at six months old get two hours more sleep daily compared to American babies.
Benefits of Extra Sleep.
Imagine what you could do with two extra hours every day—get more sleep yourself, prepare dinner for tomorrow, catch up on work or emails, or tackle that laundry pile. Here’s how you can help kids in your family sleep longer with some tips from a Dutch mother, Kittie Ansmes.
The Calendar Culture Helps Kids Sleep Longer.
In Dutch culture, everything is planned, and unannounced visits are rare. This structured approach extends to bedtime routines and sleep schedules, which help children sleep through the night and for longer durations. Time is valuable in the Netherlands, and being late is considered rude. Even informal gatherings have ending times, especially when parents have small children who need their sleep.
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Structured Days Help Kids Sleep Longer.
Most Dutch households follow a structured and predictable daily schedule. Set times for meals and naps are established from an early age. Predictability gives children a sense of security, which improves their chances of a good night’s sleep.
Early Bedtimes Help Kids Sleep Longer.
Dutch children have early bedtimes compared to other countries. The Dutch word for children’s bedtime, “kinder bed tijd,” reflects its importance. Bedtimes are strictly enforced, usually between 6:30 and 7 PM for toddlers. Early bedtimes do not result in early morning risers; instead, they help children sleep better as sleep begets sleep.
Suggested Bedtimes by Age.
- Age 5: 7:00 PM
- Age 6: 7:15 PM
- Age 7: 7:30 PM
- Age 8: 7:45 PM
- Age 9: 8:00 PM
- Age 10: 8:15 PM
Making Sleep a Priority.
Making sleep a priority is crucial for children’s well-being. Poor sleep affects their health and behavior. Dutch parents plan their schedules around their children’s naps and bedtimes, often arranging babysitters for events after 7 PM. Dinner is usually eaten as a family early in the evening, around 5 PM, to ensure children go to bed on time.
Encouraging Children to Sleep in Their Own Bed.
Dutch children are accustomed to sleeping in their own beds from an early age. Quality sleep is not associated with sleeping in car seats, playpens, swings, or strollers. Even young babies are put into their cribs as much as possible during naps to help them get used to sleeping in their own beds.
Tips to Help Kids Sleep Longer.
- Establish a Consistent Schedule: Plan and stick to regular times for meals, naps, and bedtime.
- Implement Early Bedtimes: Ensure children go to bed early, following age-appropriate bedtimes.
- Prioritize Sleep: Make sleep a top priority by arranging your schedule around your children’s sleep needs and encouraging them to sleep in their own beds.
By adopting these habits, you can help your children get more sleep, leading to better health and more rest for the whole family.
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