Helping Your Child or Teen Sleep Well During Cancer Treatment

1. Importance of Sleep: 

• Sleep is crucial for physical and mental health.
• It aids in recovery from chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation for kids with cancer.
• Poor sleep can lead to increased pain in children.

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2. Tips for Better Sleep: 

• Maintain a Healthy Sleep Routine:

• Set consistent bedtime and wake-up times.
• Adjust waking time for medical appointments.
• Keep a relaxing bedtime routine, avoiding screens 30 minutes before sleep.

• Limit Screen Time:

• Bright screens can affect the body's sleep clock.
• Choose non-screen activities before bedtime, like reading or listening to music.

• Watch Caffeine Intake:

• Avoid caffeine in the afternoon and evening.
• Caffeine can interfere with bedtime.

• Designate Bed for Sleep:

• Use the bed only for sleeping.
• Avoid engaging in activities like gaming or homework in bed.

• Sunlight Exposure:

• Encourage outdoor activities for sunlight exposure.
• If indoors, open blinds and curtains to simulate natural light.

• Manage Napping:

• Allow napping but avoid late-afternoon naps.
• End naps earlier to prevent difficulty falling asleep at bedtime.

• Relaxation Activities:

• If awake for more than 30 minutes, engage in relaxing activities.
• Avoid screens; enjoy activities like reading, listening to music, or deep breathing.

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3. Seeking Further Help: 

• If sleep problems persist, consult with your medical provider.
• Hospitals often have healthcare providers who specialize in helping children with cancer achieve better sleep.
• Contact the Austin Hatcher Foundation for 100%-FREE support in your family's cancer journey.

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About the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer

The Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing a lifetime of free essential services to children and families affected by pediatric cancer. Through its various programs, the Foundation offers support, education, and hope to children battling cancer and their families, helping them navigate the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. For more information about the organization, visit www.HatcherFoundation.org.

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Referemce: HTTPS://TOGETHER.STJUDE.ORG/EN-US/BLOG/ARTICLE/NATIONAL-SLEEP-AWARENESS-WEEK.HTML 

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