2006 Press Releases

Saint Barnabas Medical Center Provides Tips to Keep the “Sleep” in Sleep-Away Camp

Livingston, N.J. -- Each summer, children pack up and go to sleep-away camp for fun-filled days. While enjoyable, overnight camp can be a child’s longest time away from his or her parents. For some children this can cause stress and homesickness which may cause problems with their sleep.

“Many children aren’t fully prepared for the independence that comes with going to overnight camp, and this can decrease both the fun of their experience and amount of sleep they get each night,” explains Barry A. Cohen, M.D., a pediatric sleep expert who treats children at both The Kazmir Center for Sleep Disorders at Saint Barnabas and The Pediatric Specialty Center of Saint Barnabas.

Dr. Cohen notes that these problems are by no means caused by a sleep disorder, but can be corrected by helping your child make a few simple adjustments. He recommends families practice at home before camp begins.

“Chldren can get themselves ready for bed, as if their mom or dad won't be there to asist and they should have practice sleepovers at friends' houses,” says Dr. Cohen.

The good news is that some children actually sleep better when they go away to camp. Between a strict schedule of bed times and wake times, and a rest time built into every day, children get used to a regular schedule and this can improve their sleep habits.

The Kazmir Center for Sleep Disorders at Saint Barnabas Medical Center offers the following techniques for parents to help their children prepare for camp:

1. Include children in camp planning so they have a sense of control. Let them help decide about which camp to choose and find one that fits their interests.

2. Arrange for practice time away from home so the parent and child get used to being apart. Set up a sleepover where the child will feel safe and can adjust to being away from home.

3. Involve your child in the packing. Let him or her bring a favorite shirt or a special stuffed animal. Familiar items will help make your child more comfortable in unfamiliar surroundings.

4. Discuss homesickness openly. Be positive about the upcoming camp experience and avoid expressing personal doubts or concerns.
Discuss the child’s medical conditions (if any) with camp staff. Make sure the child knows what to do if he or she feels ill and where regular prescriptions can be taken.

5. Avoid making deals about early pickups. This undermines children's confidence and sets them up for failure. Encourage them instead that they will do really well away from home.

6. Know your child’s readiness. Look at his/her social habits and previous experiences to determine whether he/she is ready for camp.

7. Talk with your child about different strategies to combat sleeplessness and homesickness. Talk with the child’s camp counselor or director to inform them if your child seems particularly worried about one or more issues.

The Kazmir Center for Sleep Disorders is accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and offers a full range of services used in the evaluation, diagnosis and management of sleep-related disorders in adults and children. The Center is equipped with the latest in monitoring equipment, providing the opportunity for daytime testing and full overnight sleep studies. For more information, please call 973-322-9800.

March 30, 2006

CONTACT: PUBLIC RELATIONS (973) 322-9901

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