What Causes Sleeping Disorders in Children?

What causes sleeping disorders in children? You want your child to feel well-rested. A sleeping disorder robs the body of much-needed down time. With today's on-the-go lifestyle, children do not get sufficient sleep time, which can lead to a potential sleep disorder.

A sleep disorder can be attributed to medical problems, erratic bedtime schedules, the environment, or disturbances to the circadian rhythm. Causes include:

• Poor sleep habits. Excessive nap time or early bed times disturb your child's natural sleep pattern. Establish a routine for sleep.
• Emotional problems, including depression or anxiety disorders, can cause insomnia.
• Food or beverages loaded with caffeine wreak havoc with your child's natural sleep routine. Avoid these items before bed time.
• Medical problems can obstruct a decent night's sleep. Asthma, acid reflux, neck or back pain and ulcers disrupt sleep patterns.
• Medications may produce undesirable effects and disturb sleep time.
• Stress is a leading cause of sleep disorders. Extraordinary stressors, including a move, a new school or new social situation, can provoke nightmares or night terrors.
• Lifestyle habits hinder your child's sleep habits, too. Your child should not watch TV or play on the computer while he is in bed. The bed should only be used for sleeping. This will help establish a routine for your child.
• Environmental issues, such as lighting, noise or temperature, may lead to sleep problems. Keep your child's bedroom dark when he goes to bed. Loud noises interfere with falling asleep. And if your child's room is too hot or too cold, he may have difficulty nodding off.
• Many sleeping disorders can be headed off with simple adjustments to your child's lifestyle. Medical problems should be discussed with a medical professional to determine the severity of the sleep disorder.