Getting enough sleep is essential for children and young people’s health, wellbeing, learning, and development. A good night’s sleep can help children improve concentration, behaviour, memory, emotional wellbeing, and performance at school. Sleep also supports physical growth, strengthens the immune system, and helps young people feel more energetic throughout the day.
Poor sleep can lead to tiredness, stress, irritability, difficulty concentrating, hyperactivity, and behavioural challenges. Developing healthy sleep habits early in life can support long-term physical and mental wellbeing.
Common children’s sleep problems
Children may experience sleep difficulties for many different reasons. Common sleep issues include:
- difficulty settling at bedtime
- changes in routine
- bed wetting
- anxiety and fears
- sensory difficulties
- feeling hungry or thirsty at night
- physical discomfort
- nightmares or night terrors