You might wonder, What are some of the roles of Public Health Nurses? In Meeker, McLeod, and Sibley Counties, Registered Nurses make Family Home Visits to support people during pregnancy and until the child reaches the age of 3.
They teach parents about the following topics:
- Healthy Pregnancies
- Positive Parenting
- Infant and Child Growth and Development (including weight checks)
- Health and Nutrition
- Strengthening Family Relationships
- Community Resources
How Much Sleep Do my Child and Baby Need?
Safe sleep is one of the many important topics covered. Babies sleep safest on their backs for naps and at night to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Babies should be laid on a firm and flat sleep surface, such as a safety-approved crib, covered with a fitted sheet. It is recommended that there are no soft objects, toys, crib bumpers, or loose bedding under the baby, over the baby, or anywhere in the baby’s sleeping area.
Children’s sleep needs vary depending on their age. Infants typically require the most sleep, with newborns needing around 12-16 hours per day, gradually decreasing as they grow older. Toddlers typically need 11-14 hours, preschoolers need 10-13 hours, and school-age children need 9-12 hours, which includes nap times.
Sleep allows the brain to develop, building networks that facilitate thinking and learning as well as the formation of behavior. For toddler and preschool-aged children, napping provides benefits for memory and thinking.
The quality of sleep is also important for children. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine, creating a conducive sleep environment, and limiting screen time before bed can all contribute to better sleep quality. Sleep plays a crucial role in children’s physical and mental development, so ensuring they get enough sleep is essential for their overall well-being. If your child gets the recommended amount of sleep, they will be happier and healthier!
