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Sleep problems are common among children, especially when they’re young. Insomnia, bedtime fears, night terrors, sleepwalking, and bed-wetting can all disrupt your child’s natural sleep pattern. Some children may not feel tired at their designated bedtime while others have trouble falling asleep without a parent present. Some kids will frequently wake up in the middle of the night, suddenly wide awake, and either toss and turn or come and wake up mom and dad. 

While establishing good lifestyle habits can help ensure a restful night for a child of any age, it’s especially important for toddlers and older children.

Make sure your child uses their bed only for sleep If possible, encourage them to use their bed only for sleep and a pre-bedtime ritual (such as reading a book). Also ensure their bedroom is comfortable

Try to keep the same sleep schedule, even on weekends: This will make it easier for your child to wake up and fall asleep naturally.

Keep your child from going to bed too hungry or full: A light snack (such as warm milk and a banana) before bed is a good idea. However, heavy meals within an hour or two of bedtime may keep kids awake.

Encourage an active lifestyle Regular exercise prevents restlessness at night. An hour every day is the recommended amount. And stop exercising 2 hours before sleep time.

Pay attention to napping Make sure your child is not asleep for too long or too close to bedtime.

Set limits with electronics Turn off these devices at least one hour before bed and store them outside your child’s bedroom during sleep hours.

At some point in childhood, most children experience a fear of the dark or going to bed at night.

You can also:

Use a night-light To give your child extra security in their bed at night, as long as it isn’t bright enough to disturb their sleep.

Avoid scary books, movies, or TV shows Even during the day.

Encourage your child to stay in bed even if they wake up in the night. You want your child to learn that their bed is a safe place so it’s better to sit with them while they go back to sleep.

Establishing good sleep hygiene habits and eliminating other barriers to proper sleep is the first line of defense in treating sleep disorder. If you tried it all and your child is still suffering from sleep disorder, keep track of the symptoms and talk to your pediatrician.

Dr Lina Moghnieh

Paediatrician 

Childhood Insomnia and Sleep Problems - HelpGuide.org.