A teacher wants to know why Ben, a preschooler, wakes up every morning at about 3:00 and refuses to go back to sleep. The teacher should

Talk with the child's mother.

try to gather more information from Ben's parents or caregivers.

To understand why Ben, the preschooler, wakes up every morning at about 3:00 and refuses to go back to sleep, the teacher should first have a conversation with Ben's parents or caregivers. Gathering more information about Ben's sleeping patterns and any possible changes in his routine or environment can provide valuable insights into the underlying reasons behind his early wake-ups.

Here is how the conversation with Ben's parents or caregivers might go:

1. Schedule a meeting: Request a meeting with Ben's parents or caregivers to discuss his sleep habits. This can be done in person, over the phone, or through a written communication method like email.

2. Ask about Ben's sleeping schedule: Inquire about Ben's typical bedtime, how long he sleeps at night, and whether his waking up at around 3:00 has always been a recurring pattern or is a recent occurrence. Information on any changes in his sleep routine can be crucial to understanding the situation.

3. Explore Ben's daily routine: Discuss Ben's daily activities, both before bedtime and during the day. Pay attention to any recent changes that might impact his sleep, such as shifts in his nap schedule, dietary habits, screen time exposure, or any significant life events.

4. Inquire about Ben's sleep environment: Ask Ben's parents or caregivers about any alterations in his sleep environment, such as changes in his bedroom setup, temperature, lighting, or noise levels. These factors can strongly influence sleep quality and may contribute to early morning awakenings.

5. Note additional relevant details: Encourage Ben's parents or caregivers to share any additional information they feel might be important. This can include personal observations of his behavior during the early morning wake-ups or any specific factors that seem to comfort or distress Ben during these times.

By gathering this information, the teacher will have a better understanding of Ben's sleep patterns and potential triggers for his early wake-ups. Armed with this knowledge, the teacher can work collaboratively with the parents or caregivers to devise strategies or seek further professional help if needed, ensuring Ben's well-being and promoting healthy sleep habits.