‘Dulces Sueños’ By Tide Detergent.

Recent studies show that America’s children are sleeping less than experts recommend and that the majority experience sleep problems. Parents may know this firsthand from their struggles with their own children, but many still find it difficult to arrive at the right approach to help them get the rest they need. With the assistance of Dr. Marcel Deray, Director of the Sleep Disorders Center at Miami Children’s Hospital, Tide is promoting Sweet Dreams (“Dulces Sueños”), a 10-step process that tells Hispanic parents how they can help their children achieve a more satisfying sleep.

According to the National Sleep Foundation’s Sleep in America poll released in March 2004, more than two-thirds (69%) of children under the age of 10 experience one or more sleep problems at least a few nights a week, according to their parents/caregivers. The most common sleep problems include difficulty falling asleep, nightwakings, stalling and resisting going to bed. Fourteen percent (14%) of children experience difficulties in falling asleep. The study also demonstrates that on average children; from babies to those in fifth grade, sleep less hours than what is recommend by experts for proper development.

Quality sleep promotes alertness, a sharp memory and good behavior. Children that satisfy their sleep needs are less likely to exhibit behavioral problems and irritability. In order to overcome those problems, Dr. Deray recommends adopting a consistent nightly routine and ensuring that the child’s sleep environment, from the room to the bed, is conducive to a good night’s sleep.

“The benefits of a routine are that it makes both the parent and child feel comfortable and relaxed because they both know what to expect,” said Dr. Deray. “The sleep environment is important because it can make the child feel cozy and protected, and also shield him or her from things that could interfere with sleep.”

The ten-step nightly schedule includes:

1. Set a consistent time to go to bed and for naps – Don’t wait until they are tired. 2. Maintain the room’s light, temperature, and noise level the same every night, avoiding TV´s and radio.
3. Let them fall asleep on their own.
4. Make sure your child’s sheets and covers are fresh, soft, and clean, and that they are appropriate for the room temperature. 5. Have the child take a warm bath, preferably 1-2 hours before bedtime. Have them wear soft and comfortable pajamas.
6. Have them brush their teeth and praise them for it.
7. Tuck them into bed – if it makes them feel safer you can let them go to bed with a soft blanket, or plush toy. 8. Read them a book or story in bed or sing a song for them, if appropriate for their age. 9. Provide a moment of reflection on the day that passed. 10. Give them an affectionate goodnight and leave the room after turning off the light. You can leave on a nightlight if it reduces the child’s anxiety.

“If part of what goes into ensuring a good night’s sleep is having a comfortable sleeping environment that helps the child feel cozy and protected, we can certainly lend a hand to parents” says Anelsie Ramos, Hispanic External Relations Assistant Manager for Tide. “Tide with a Touch of Downy will leave the bed linens feeling so soft, clean and comfortable that you may have a hard time getting your child out of bed.”