Get More Sleep

10 solutions that will have tots, teens and yes, even you, sleeping more soundly.

Originally published September, 2006

Adapted from Sleep Solutions for Your Baby, Toddler and Preschooler (Wiley) by Ann Douglas*

SLEEP STEALER #10
You and your partner bicker all night long about who’s on duty

Sleep solution Some midnight wake-up calls are inevitable, so decide who’s on duty before you hit the hay and then stick to the plan. And if your partner’s on duty, don’t intervene unless asked. “The off-duty parent should wear earplugs,” says Cathy, a 38-year-old mother of one. Rather than keeping a mental score card, think of your parental energy as a pooled asset. That way you’ll see each other’s naps and breaks as something that’s good for you both. This fresh perspective should lead to less tossing and turning and, as the chill begins to leave the bedroom, some very good nights for you both.