Common Sleep Disorders in Babies and Children: What Parents Need to Know
Sleep is essential for children’s growth, development, and overall well-being, but sometimes, even with the best routines in place, sleep doesn’t come easily. Many parents are surprised to learn that sleep disorders in babies and young children are more common than they think. Understanding these issues can help you recognize when your little one might need extra support to get the rest they need.
Here’s an overview of some of the most common sleep disorders in babies and children, along with signs to watch for and what you can do to help.
1. Insomnia
Insomnia isn’t just a problem for adults—it can affect children too. Insomnia in babies and young children typically presents as difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early.
Signs to look for:
- Trouble falling asleep at bedtime
- Frequent night wakings that last more than a few minutes
- Early morning wake-ups
- Irritability or overtiredness during the day
What you can do: Establishing a consistent bedtime routine is key to helping children with insomnia. A calming pre-sleep routine, along with a consistent sleep environment, can make a big difference. If sleep issues persist, it might be worth discussing with a pediatrician or sleep consultant to rule out underlying causes like anxiety or medical conditions.
2. Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition where a child’s breathing is temporarily interrupted during sleep due to blocked airways. While sleep apnea is more common in older children, some infants and toddlers can experience it, especially those with enlarged tonsils, adenoids, or certain medical conditions.
Signs to look for:
- Loud snoring or gasping during sleep
- Pauses in breathing followed by snorting or choking
- Restless sleep or frequent night wakings
- Daytime fatigue, irritability, or hyperactivity
What you can do: If you suspect sleep apnea, consult with your pediatrician or a sleep specialist. Treatment may involve addressing any underlying conditions, such as enlarged tonsils, or using a CPAP machine in severe cases.
3. Night Terrors
Night terrors are a form of parasomnia and can be terrifying for parents to witness. Unlike nightmares, children experiencing night terrors are not fully awake and may scream, thrash, or appear distressed without remembering the event the next morning.
Signs to look for:
- Sudden screaming or crying out in the night
- Appearing confused or disoriented
- Sweating, rapid heartbeat, or heavy breathing
- No memory of the event upon waking
What you can do: Night terrors are typically harmless and children outgrow them with time. They’re often triggered by overtiredness, so ensuring your child gets enough sleep and maintaining a calming bedtime routine can help reduce their frequency. If night terrors persist or become disruptive, seeking guidance from a sleep specialist may be beneficial.
4. Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is less common in children but can still affect their sleep. Children with RLS often feel an irresistible urge to move their legs, especially when resting or falling asleep, which can delay sleep onset.
Signs to look for:
- Complaints of “tingling” or “itching” sensations in the legs, especially at bedtime
- Constant movement or kicking during sleep
- Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
What you can do: RLS in children can sometimes be related to low iron levels, so it’s important to consult a pediatrician if you suspect this condition. Ensuring your child gets enough iron in their diet may help alleviate symptoms. A calming bedtime routine and massage may also provide relief.
5. Sleepwalking
Sleepwalking is another parasomnia that commonly affects children, especially between the ages of 3 and 7. During sleepwalking episodes, a child may sit up in bed, walk around, or even perform tasks, all while still asleep.
Signs to look for:
- Walking or moving around during sleep
- Difficulty waking your child during an episode
- Confusion upon waking in the morning
What you can do: Ensure your child’s environment is safe in case of sleepwalking episodes by removing obstacles they could trip over. Most children outgrow sleepwalking, but if it happens frequently or puts your child at risk of injury, seeking advice from a healthcare professional is recommended.
When to Seek Help
While occasional sleep disturbances are normal, ongoing sleep issues can affect your child’s development, mood, and ability to concentrate. If your baby or child is showing signs of a sleep disorder that lasts longer than a few weeks or significantly disrupts their daytime functioning, it may be time to consult a pediatrician or sleep specialist.
At my sleep coaching business, I specialize in working with families to create personalized sleep plans for children from newborn to age 7. If you suspect your child may be struggling with a sleep disorder or you’re simply looking for help to establish better sleep habits, I’m here to support you. Together, we can help your little one achieve restful, restorative sleep.
Contact me today for more information on how I can help your child develop healthy sleep habits for life.
