Tips for the Sleep Deprived

Last night, stress sabotaged my sleep. Not my own stress, but that of my son. This child, brave and confident by day, can at night be scared beyond all reason by things like junebugs, possible mummies ("Are you SURE they're not real, Mom?") and things that only his impressively complex imagination can create. As a result, he's had trouble getting to sleep two nights in a row now, I've awoken two nights in a row to the interesting smell of his feet, and I'm being reminded of the importance of sleep. And the importance of stress management for children (which in the past has helped quite a bit).

There are many things--other than wakeful children--that can rob you of sleep, and many of them are stress related. If you find yourself getting less sleep than you'd like, help is here. The following are sleep resources from me and from other Guides at About.com.

Resources for Better Sleep:

• Stress and Sleep Problems
  As you know, stress can rob you of sleep in several sneaky ways. Here are some common culprits, and how to combat them.

• How Much Sleep Do You Need?
  Here are some important facts on sleep, and resources for getting better sleep when stressed.

• Power Napping for Stress Relief
  This article also provides useful guidelines for catching up on sleep via your secret weapon: the power nap.

• Tips To Help a Gifted Kid Fall Asleep
  This article by Carol Bainbridge is actually pretty applicable to most children and adults; great things to keep in mind.

• About.com's Sleep Disorders Site
  This excellent site covers all of the common ways that sleep problems may manifest themselves in children and adults. It's a great resource for the sleepy among us.

Okay, I'm off to start an adventurous day that will most certainly include a power nap!