Doctors Note Logo

Published on: 7/14/2026

What are common sleep disorders in children and how are they treated?

Yoshinori Abe

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Common sleep disorders in children include insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep), obstructive sleep apnea (breathing interruptions during sleep), and night terrors (episodes of intense fear during deep sleep). Treatment typically starts with behavioral changes—such as consistent bedtime routines, limiting screen time, and improving sleep hygiene—and may include medical interventions like CPAP therapy or medication when needed.

If your child is struggling with sleep, identifying the underlying cause early can make a meaningful difference in their health, mood, and development. Because symptoms of sleep disorders often overlap with other conditions, guessing can delay proper care. Take a few minutes to complete a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand what may be causing your child's sleep issues and get clear guidance on the right next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

answer background

Important Next Steps

Discover causes of your child's sleep problemsLearn if sleep problems need urgent careFind out what may be disrupting sleepSee OTC options for better sleepFind a doctor for sleep disordersUnderstand medically proven sleep remediesCheck if symptoms suggest a sleep disorder

Not seeing your question? No worries.

Submit your own Question

Explanation

Children can experience several sleep disorders, which can affect their health and daily activities.

Common Sleep Disorders:

  1. Insomnia - Trouble falling or staying asleep.
  2. Sleep Apnea - Breathing stops and starts during sleep.
  3. Night Terrors - Episodes of screaming or panic during sleep.

Treatment Approaches:

  • Behavioral Changes:

  • Establishing a bedtime routine can help children with insomnia.

  • Sleep apnea might require using a special machine to help with breathing.

  • Night terrors often improve with reassurance and a calm environment.

  • Medication:

  • Sometimes, medicine is used, but mostly only when other treatments don't work.

If you are worried about your child's sleep, it's important to talk to a doctor. To help identify potential causes of your child's symptoms, try our free AI symptom checker for personalized insights.

(References)

  • Deshpande P, Salcedo B, & Haq C. (2022). Common Sleep Disorders in Children. American family physician, 35166510.

  • Carter KA, Hathaway NE, & Lettieri CF. (2014). Common sleep disorders in children. American family physician, 24695508.

  • Shelton AR. (2023). Sleep Disorders in Childhood. Continuum (Minneapolis, Minn.), 37590830.

Thinking about asking ChatGPT?Ask me instead

Tell your friends about us.

We would love to help them too.

smily Shiba-inu looking

For First Time Users

What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?

We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.

Was this page helpful?

Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.