Young children need 12 hours sleep a night in order to aid their development.
This is the expert opinion of child psychologist Emma Kenny, who noted it is vital kids get used to a bedtime routine.
She recommends developing a 30-minute system that includes reading to youngsters and giving them a bath so they feel truly relaxed.
One option parents should never consider is letting their little ones watch television just before they are due to go to bed, as this will leave their minds too active.
Reading to kids before they go to sleep will also improve their vocabulary as they encounter new words.
In terms of a general relationship with offspring, Ms Kenny remarked mums and dads need to aim for one-on-one interaction or a social interaction.
"Make sure you're spending time with your children, playing with them, making them feel valued and confident," she stated.
Ms Kenny went on to note children should be given plenty of opportunities to enjoy themselves.
