Sleep disorders in children: why should they be taken seriously?

 Sleep disorders in children: why should they be taken seriously?

“Sleeping like a baby” means sleeping soundly and getting restorative sleep. However, this expression is misleading: toddlers can suffer from sleep disorders. However, sleeping well is absolutely essential for the development of children! In this article, we will see why sleep disorders in children should be taken seriously and how to help them.

Sleeping well: why is it so important for little ones?

Too short a night or poor quality sleep primarily impacts the behavior of children. While adults tend to be sleepy and listless when they are tired, toddlers show the opposite attitude: hyperactive, they are also more irritable, and impatient. Apart from their obvious nervousness, they find it difficult to concentrate and memorize what they are learning.

Children who sleep poorly thus show a learning delay, and it is common for them to start speaking later. These symptoms can also suggest that some children suffer from behavioral problems when they actually suffer "only" from sleep disorders. Beware of hazardous diagnoses and false health problems!

A prolonged lack of sleep also affects the health of newborns.  Children who lack sleep tend to get sick more frequently.

 Although the process is still obscure, it is scientifically established, in fact, that sleep directly impacts the immune system and health. Studies also clearly show that a child who sleeps poorly has a greater risk of suffering from childhood obesity.

How to help a baby sleep through the night?

Sleep is a learning process that begins… from birth! We often hear that a baby sleeps through the night at the age of 6 months. In fact, at this age, it is common for a baby to wake up frequently.

 This is due to two reasons: firstly, the biological clock of toddlers is not yet “operational”, and they do not know the difference between day and night.

sleep disorders in children

If the night is short for the child, it is also short for you!

Then, to sleep for several hours at a time, a baby must be able to store enough energy. Some babies reach their physiological maturity earlier – or later – than others: this must be taken into account. However, you can help your child “set” his biological clock. To do this, be sure to feed and change him calmly during the night, keeping a dim light. During the day, however, you can stimulate the baby by talking to him!

How to help older children sleep?

Around the age of 3, a child can stop taking naps: a good night's sleep is enough for them to be in good shape! If your child sleeps badly or too little, it is likely that simple organizational changes are enough to solve his sleep problems. The first thing to do is get into a routine that includes having dinner and going to bed at set times. It is important that the bedroom lends itself to a good night's sleep. For this, some precautions are necessary:

Make sure that the ambient temperature is 18 to 19°C;

Equip the bed with a pillow and a children's duvet, adapted to the morphology of a child;

Eliminate any potential source of the noise.

A hug, a story. The famous " dodo ritual " allows little ones to calm down and put themselves in good condition for sleeping. In addition to their cuddly toy, some children need the reassuring light of a night light for a certain period of time when it's time to go to bed. The following day will be better for your parents but also for your child.

Sleepdisorders in children: when should you consult?

Teething, diarrhea, nightmare... A multitude of factors can disturb the nights of the little ones.

 However, it may be useful to talk to your pediatrician – or even to consult a specialist – when sleep disorders settle over time, and if you notice repercussions on a daily basis.

So, we've seen why child sleep disorders should be taken seriously and what to do if your little one is struggling to get quality sleep. If the problems persist, it will be necessary to inquire with a childcare professional.**