If your child prefers to lay on the couch or nap during the day while other kids her age are playing sports or enjoying activities, she may be overly tired. There are many causes of daytime exhaustion--physical, mental and emotional. If your child's lack of energy is inhibiting normal behavior for her age, it is wise to consult her pediatrician who can conduct a thorough examination and form a treatment plan.
Physical Ailments
On his website, pediatrician Dr. Jeffrey Hull advises parents to check for physical ailments when your child is excessively tired during the day. Issues such as asthma, epilepsy or tonsillitis can keep your child from getting a good night sleep, leading to daytime exhaustion. Pneumonia and mononucleosis are two illnesses that make children excessively tired. Review any medications your child has been prescribed. They may be making him
drowsy during the day or keeping him awake at night. Other issues that may be affecting the amount of sleep he gets at night include sleep walking, bedwetting, or snoring. Dr. Hull claims that snoring is a problem for about 10% of children. A physician can thoroughly examine your child to determine if a sickness or medication is causing him to be tired during the day.
Depression
Depression doesn't only affect adults. About 5 percent of kids and adolescents suffer from this treatable malady claims the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychology. Depression can prohibit a child from functioning normally. Low energy, boredom and a decreased interest in activities are some symptoms of depression in a child. Sadness and headaches are two other symptoms of depression. If you think your tired child may be depressed, consult your physician who can refer you to a mental health professional. Individual and family therapy can help remedy the situation.
Emotional Stress
Like adults, children suffer from stress, sometimes even more so. An issue that may seem like a simple nuisance to a parent may be taking a large toll on a child, in the form of exhaustion. Kids Growth explains that children spend most of their waking hours in school, with friends or with family. A difficulty in any of these arenas can cause a child to be tired during the day. Anxiety may stem from peer pressure, pressure to perform well academically or tough challenges on a sports team. A child can also feel stressed if there are problems between her parents or if she has a sick friend or relative. Children suffering from stress related exhaustion wake up tired, struggle through the day and seclude themselves in their bedrooms. Parental attention and support can help a child through troubled times.
Original Article Here
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Nathan says: As a new parent, I have only begun to see the importance of nap times, bed times and a strictly enforced sleep schedule in my child development. With just a little time and structure you can make sure that your child has all the sleep they need.
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