Sleep problems in children are very common. Studies report varying rates of prevalence, but it is generally estimated that up to 50% of children will experience a sleep disorder.
Normal sleep patterns in infants and children
As many parents are well aware, sleep changes considerably during the first few years of a child’s life. This usually corresponds to various growth and developmental stages.
Newborns require the greatest amount of sleep, totaling 16 to 18 hours, which is fragmented throughout the day.
From 5 months onwards, infants have the ability to sleep for longer periods, and at 6 months, they are able to go without nighttime feedings. Most children also need one nap a day up to the age of 3 years.
Additionally, infants who are breastfed wake up more frequently, have shorter sleep periods, and have slightly shorter total sleep times.
Nevertheless, an important caveat must be made: significant variation exists in these general trends from child to child.
When is it a sleep disorder?
Sleep disorders encompass problems with sleep quality, timing, and duration. There are a whole range of sleep disorders that can affect children. Common ones include, having nightmares, behavioural insomnia, sleepwalking and bedwetting, confusional arousals, restless legs syndrome, and sleep apnoea.
Some signs or behaviours that indicate a possible sleep problem include the following:
- Snoring
- Breathing pauses during sleep
- Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep through the night
- Difficulty waking up in the morning, staying awake during the day, or decreased daytime activity
- Sleepwalking, teeth grinding, or bedwetting
- Restless sleep or nightmares
Helping your child improve their sleep
Children often grow out of many of the sleep issues they face. There are also several behavioural changes and practices that you can cultivate at home to help your child sleep better.
- Practice good sleep hygiene. Set up habits and routines for bedtime. This should also include getting daily exercise and limiting screen time in the evenings.
- Prepare the environment. Keep bedroom lights dim before bedtime. At bedtime, ensure the room is dark and at a comfortable temperature. Keep the noise level in the house low.
- Regular sleep and wake times. Set a regular time for bed each night. Wake-up time should also remain consistent throughout the week.
- Relax and reduce stressors. Spend time together cuddling before bedtime and having short conversations about their day.
