The “Helping your Child to Sleep” booklet by Kent Post Adoption Service is a resource aimed at assisting families with adopted children who are struggling with sleep. It acknowledges the higher prevalence of sleep difficulties in this group due to factors such as past traumas and the need for consistent routines. The booklet provides an understanding of the importance of sleep and offers practical advice on improving sleep hygiene, calming bedtime activities, creating a comforting sleep pack, and managing bedtime fears, separation anxiety, and night-time waking. It is a supportive guide for adoptive parents seeking to improve their child’s sleep patterns and overall well-being.
Contents:
- Why is sleep important?
- Sleep difficulties in adopted children
- How can I help my child sleep?
- The early days
- Setting the scene: sleep hygiene
- Body clock reminders
- Calming activities to include at bedtime
- Calming activities before bedtime
- Creating a sleep pack
- Creating a ‘Sleep pack’ or ‘Calming box’
- Fears at bedtime
- Separation anxiety
- Night-time waking
- Nightmares
- Further resources
- What do I do if I need more support?
- References and appendices
FREE PDF DOWNLOAD OF HELPING YOUR ADOPTED/FOSTERED CHILD SLEEP GUIDE FOR ADOPTERS & FOSTER CARERS