Expert Q&A

My 6-year-old daughter sleeps 10 hours a night, but it’s still hard for her to get up! In the morning, she gets upset and won’t eat breakfast (but as soon as she’s on the bus, she’s fine!). What can I do?

How does your daughter fare on weekend mornings? Assuming she gets up normally when not going to school, you should find out what she is resisting as well as what she is getting out of the negative attention. Is there jealousy about a sibling staying at home? Separation anxiety? A social adjustment issue? First, inquire about any school-related difficulties. Then ask yourself what she is getting out of all this drama. Be concerned and solution-oriented without reinforcing negative behavior.

Dr. Patti Zomber is a child psychologist based in Marina del Rey, Calif. She has written numerous articles about parenting, and she is a contributing editor on NestleFamily.com as well as the editor of the Los Angeles Psychologist journal.

Please Note: This Expert Q&A feature is intended to impart general child development information and mealtime tips. This is not to take the place of medical consultation and you should consult your doctor for medical advice or services.

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