Jodi Mindell, PhD:
Dr. Lisa's Interview

Aired on Lifetime Television
Sunday, February 11 and March 25
Show 406

"Sleeping habits are really important and it's vital to get babies into good habits so that they're good sleepers for life," says Dr. Jodi Mindell, author and professor of psychology at Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia. "What are common pediatric sleeping disorders?" asks Dr. Lisa. "Common problems are difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. Toddlers are notorious for staging nighttime curtain calls and babies normally wake up during the night," says Dr. Mindell. "What should you be aware of if you think your child has a sleeping disorder?" asks Dr. Lisa. "Make sure your child has good sleep habits. Set a consistent bedtime and bedtime routine and see that your child falls asleep alone. If your child still has difficulties sleeping, then see a doctor. A Johnson and Johnson study found that a routine bedtime consisting of a bath, a massage and a quiet activity was very conducive to a good night's sleep," says Dr. Mindell.