Helping Kids Build Healthy Habits for Better Sleep

Building healthy sleep habits is one of the most important and sometimes most challenging parts of parenting. In this episode, Dr. Dave Anderson sits down with Dr. Shelby Harris, a clinical psychologist and board-certified sleep specialist, to share compassionate, practical guidance for families looking to improve their child’s sleep. Drawing on years of experience helping kids and parents, Dr. Harris explains why sleep matters for mental health, learning, and behavior, and how small changes can make a big difference. Key topics include: • Why sleep is essential for children’s growth, mood, and focus • How to create a sleep-friendly environment (and why “quiet, dark, cool, and comfortable” works) • The most common sleep challenges at every age and what really helps • How screens, routines, and even grandparents can impact your child’s sleep • What to do when your child wakes up too early, can’t fall asleep, or keeps leaving their room • When to worry about issues like snoring, night terrors, or persistent sleepwalking • Tips for modeling healthy sleep habits as a family • How to know when it’s time to seek help from a specialist Resources mentioned in this episode: The Child Mind Institute’s Sleep Resources More from Dr. Shelby Harris Positive Parenting: Building Healthy Routines