The book that sends your child to sleep
You don't expect a self-published kid's book to be an international best seller, but The Rabbit Who Wants to Fall Asleep has topped Amazon's list. All because its author, a Swedish psychologist, promises your child will be nodding off well before the end.
It's about a rabbit who couldn't fall asleep, but with the help of Uncle Yawn, Sleepy Snail and Heavy Eyed Owl he dozes off. Parents have had mixed reactions, but many say it works.
Mum Rikki Waller says the book is quite repetitive and has a slow and soothing rhythm.
“It's definitely in the delivery - you've got the bold words that tell you to emphasise the words. You’ve got the italics that tell you to really slow down,” she said.
Dr Chris Seton of Woolcock Institute of Medical Research says repetition is key to getting your child to sleep.
“Although it may drive a parent crazy to read the same book and same subject matter every night - the repetition is really, really important in achieving good sleep.”
Thirty to forty per cent of pre-schoolers have frequent problems sleeping. The effects on their health can be serious - poor growth, bad behaviour and learning difficulties. Lack of sleep can be detrimental to the whole family.
“Some kids have primary physical sleep disorders that are stopping them sleeping - such as sleep apnea and snoring. So we separate sleep problems out in terms of behavioral issues and then the physical issues, “Seton says.
By the time Uncle Yawn has sprinkled invisible sleeping powder, hopefully kids will be out like a light. The book is available only online at present through Amazon or Kindle.
