Sleep Difficulties in Children

The majority of children and adolescents experience sleep problems at some time. There are a variety of sleep issues and a more thorough evaluation can be done by Tashawna K. Duncan, Ph.D., P.A.

What are the different types of sleep disorders?

Nightmares

• Repeated occurrence of frightening dreams that lead to awakening from sleep
• Dreams are often remembered
• Relatively common; about 10% of children are affected
• Onset usually occurs between ages three and six
• Children tend to outgrow this problem

Sleepwalking

• Repeated episodes of rising from bed during sleep and walking about
• No memory of the episode
• About 10-30% of children have at least one episode; actual disorder prevalence much lower
• Peaks at age 12 but often stops by late teens

Night terrors

• Recurrent episodes of abrupt awakening from sleep accompanied by screaming and crying
• Experience of intense physiological arousal and fear
• Very limited or no memory of episode
• Rare occurrence and is more prevalent in males and older children
• Onset usually occurs between ages four and 12 but usually stops in adolescence

Treatments for sleep difficulties

• Establish a bedtime routine (i.e., reading a bedtime story, singing a lullaby)
• Help reduce your child’s anxiety since anxiety is often the trigger for sleep difficulties
• Keep your child active during the day
• Ignore your child’s attempts to get out of bed
• Consult your pediatrician
• Psychotherapy/Counseling by Tashawna K. Duncan, Ph.D., P.A.