How a child’s healthy sleep is formed, when to wean him or her off diapers, and how to balance the use of gadgets: a blitz interview with pediatrician Lidia Babych
17 December 19:18
How to properly organize a child’s nighttime sleep, whether to limit gadget viewing, at what age diapers cease to be the norm, and when it is better to send a child to kindergarten are the questions that most parents are concerned about today.
Ina blitz interview for the "Komersant Ukrainian" YouTube channel, Lidia Babych, a pediatrician and owner of the Pediatrics with Love network, explained why there are no universal rules for raising children and what is really important for the healthy development of a baby.
What time should a child go to bed at the age of 5?
Preferably, it should be no later than 10:00 pm. Not only the hours of sleep are important, but also when the child sleeps: the more sleep that occurs before midnight, the better the night’s rest.
Do I need to limit TV and gadgets?
According to current recommendations, it is undesirable for children under two to have regular screen time.
However, the occasional use of a gadget, for example, to calm a child in a queue or a difficult situation, is not a problem. The only negative thing is when the screen becomes a constant background in the house.
Is it normal for a three-year-old to still be in a diaper?
Yes, this is not a pathology. A night diaper is absolutely normal at 3, 5, and even 7 years old.
About 10% of seven-year-olds still cannot control their urination at night – this is a matter of physiology, not behavior or education.
Is it necessary to walk with your child every day, even in winter?
There is no urgent need – in extreme weather conditions, you can skip a walk.
At the same time, it is highly desirable to provide the child with regular physical activity in the fresh air: not just rolling in a wheelchair, but encouraging outdoor games.
Can I breastfeed my child for more than two years?
Yes, you can. There is no age when breastfeeding becomes harmful.
It is not only about nutrition, but also about emotional contact. In addition, after a year, breast milk becomes more concentrated in protective components.
At what age is it best to send a child to kindergarten?
There is no single rule.
In Ukraine, it is usually 2-3 years old, while in many countries of the world children are sent to kindergarten at 1-1.5 years old.
The choice depends on the family’s capabilities and the child’s readiness – whether he or she can eat on his or her own, ask for help, and adapt to the new environment.
Can I sleep with a two-year-old in the same bed?
Yes, if it is comfortable for the family.
The main thing is to follow safety rules. If parents plan to move the child to a separate bed, they should be prepared for a gradual process and emotional support for the child.
