Practical Sleep Solutions for Children: Insights from Occupational Therapy

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In this episode, Karen will break down the concept of sleep pressure and its relevance across different age groups, from babies to school-age children. We'll explore the critical relationship between physical activity, screen time, and sleep readiness. You'll hear insightful tips on managing screen influence on sleep, touching on both metabolic processes and circadian rhythms.

Karen shares some incredible resources for parents, including key sites like the Sleep Foundation, pathways.org, and the must-read book "The Rested Child" by Chris Winters. You'll also get to know about Karen's journey from launching a cloth diaper business to returning to occupational therapy with a focus on infant and community-based sleep therapy—a path that perfectly complements her homeschooling endeavors.

We'll discuss the importance of sleep for the entire family's well-being, especially in neurodivergent children, and provide actionable strategies for parents, including sensory-sensitive routines and safe practices around the use of weighted sleep tools. Plus, Karen gives her top techniques for calming a child's nervous system before bedtime and shares her favorite experiences in combining occupational therapy with homeschooling.

In this episode you'll hear about:
Sleep Pressure and Its Impact on Different Age Groups
Physical Activity, Screen Time, and Sleep Drive
Impact of Sedentary Behavior on Sleep
Relationship Between Physical Activity and Sleep Readiness
Influence of Screens on Sleep
Metabolic Processes Affected by Screen Time
Impact on Circadian Rhythms
Karen’s Experience Applying Occupational Therapy in Homeschooling
Collaborative Goal Identification
Creative Application of Learning Goals through Activities
Importance of Sleep as a Pillar of Occupation
Effects of Poor Sleep on Family Dynamics
Addressing Sleep Issues in Neurodivergent Children
Age-Appropriate Sleep Patterns
Occupational Therapy Techniques to Address Sensory Needs
Techniques to Calm a Child’s Nervous System Before Bedtime
Concern Over Weighted Sleep Sacks for Babies
Activities to Regulate Sensory-Seeking Children Before Bedtime
Strategies for Children Who Have Difficulty Staying Asleep
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