Here are some of the most frequent children’s sleep problems and our advice for cures and solutions. Whatever route you choose, be sure to stick to it for at least three weeks before trying something else, otherwise it won't have had a chance to work.
Nightmares and Dreams
Occasional nightmares are common in children, especially before the age of 7 years old. Triggers for nightmares in children include indigestion, a scary experience (for example watching a frightening TV programme before bedtime), an impending illness, or worry. If nightmares occur, parents should examine the bedtime routine to see if something needs changing.
Bed Wetting
Bed Wetting is another common sleep problem with approximately 1 in 5 children experiencing bed wetting by the age of 6. Various reasons are attributed to bed wetting, from children being worried about problems at home or school, to the fact that some children are such heavy sleepers they fail to wake when their bladder is full.
To help cope with bed wetting, encourage your child to go to the toilet before getting into bed, drink less before bedtime and use a waterproof mattress protector to protect the mattress from any accidents. As with all our advice, if problems persist seek professional medical advice.
Asthma and Eczema
Asthma and eczema can regularly keep children awake at night. For more information on asthma and allergens see our guide ‘Advice for Allergy and Asthma Sufferers’
Eczema causes sleep disturbance mainly due to the itching and burning sensations that accompany the condition. Keeping the bedroom cool and choosing cotton bed clothing and bedding may help to relieve the itching.
Colds & Illness
Childhood colds which make the child feel under the weather can affect sleep. Naturally the parents should take the child to their GP if they suspect illness.
And finally…
Childhood sleeplessness can be caused by so many things, so parents should check the obvious causes first such as room temperature, noise, hunger or thirst. Other influences are illness (actual or impending), changes or stress in the family, holidays, excitement and fear. Parents should do their best to get to the bottom of any worries the child may have and put their minds at rest if possible. As with all our advice, if problems persist seek professional medical opinion.