Health Tip: Putting Your Child to Bed

(HealthDay News) -- To help your child get a good night's sleep, it's important to reduce distractions in the bedroom and establish a bedtime routine.

Here are some suggestions, courtesy of the Nemours Foundation:

• Set a regular bed time for your child.


• Have the child start relaxing and doing quiet activities, such as reading or listening to music, about 30 minutes before going to bed.


• Every night, have the child use the bathroom, wash hands and brush teeth to prepare for bed.


• Do something fun but quiet together every night before bed, such as reading a book or telling a story.


• Make sure the room is a comfortable temperature.


• Don't allow a television or video games in the room.


• Encourage your child to stay in bed, and praise him or her for doing so.