1. Sleep is the body’s way of recharging its batteries. During sleep, the body repairs itself.
2. A baby’s brain especially needs sleep. Scientists think that sleep may be the time when the brain sorts and stores information, replaces chemicals, and solves problems.
3. If your baby does not get enough sleep, he may not grow as well either. Researchers believe too little sleep can affect growth and the immune system.
4. When your baby does not get enough rest, he will become tired, cranky, and clingy.
5. Sleep problems are also a cause of daytime behavior problems.
6. Meltdowns at the end of the day are often a sign of an overtired child desperate for sleep.
7. Over-stimulated infants have a difficult time calming down to rest.
8. Infants and toddlers who are sleep deprived are more demanding of their parents’ attention, irritable, and learn less from their environment.
9. Infants and toddlers who get the proper amount of sleep, are happier, play well independently, and are better able to focus their attention and learn from their environment.
10. A baby who goes to sleep unwillingly or wakes frequently during the night can be highly disruptive to your marriage, other relationships and the harmony of your family.