Children, ages 0-17, need a lot more sleep than adults. The recommended amount of sleep for children varies with age. Here are some ranges that you will commonly see for nighttime sleep recommendations [NHS]:
Of course, we are all individuals and your child may need a bit more or less sleep than indicated above. Also, naptime is important for babies and toddlers in addition to the above recommendations for nighttime sleep.
Symptoms of sleep trouble in children are similar to symptoms of sleep trouble in adults, except that these signs may be more pronounced in children. Some symptoms are [WebMD]:
Often, signs of sleep trouble in children are accompanied by behavior signs of sleep trouble as well.
Behavioral signs of lack of sleep can be prominent. The important thing to note about these symptoms is that they may be normal behavior for a child and they may not – more important is whether or not these symptoms pop up and don’t characterize “normal behavior.”
Excessive behavioral signs of a lack of sleep in children can also be an indicator that there is an underlying sleep disorder causing the sleep trouble.
Like adults, children can have the same types of sleep disorders, such as insomnia or obstructive sleep apnea. Signs of sleep disorder in children may include any of the above listen symptoms, as well as [eMedicine]:
Here are some tried-and-true tips for improving sleep for children:
If your child is still suffering from sleep trouble or showing warning signs of sleep disorders, you may consult with your healthcare provider or a sleep care specialist for a sleep evaluations. Please click the orange button below to take a free online sleep test and talk with one of our sleep health professionals.