Sleep
In the UK sleep difficulties are common among young children and adolescents, including difficulty falling asleep, waking frequently and nightmares. For most children, the difficulty is a transient problem. Occasionally sleep is linked with emotional or physical issues and the problem recedes when these are addressed.
We recommend an initial consultation with your doctor or a consultant paediatrician; we are happy to recommend a specialist if you would like us to. You may be reassured that your child's sleeping pattern is normal for his or her stage of development.If an allergy or asthma is or may be an issue, our paediatric allergist Dr Adam Fox, is here to offer a thorough diagnosis and suggest appropriate treatment.
Medical treatment is occasionally recommended, although usually lifestyle advice is the first course of action.
Your doctor or a family therapist can offer practical advice and answer any queries you have about potential allergens (e.g. dust mites) that might interfere with sleep. We also advise on gentle relaxation at the end of a day.
Emotional support may be one of the keys, combined with practical tips for coping and making a transition from 'a family with a sleep problem' to a family who adapts and sleeps well. Our 'Emo team' spans child psychology, family therapy, psychotherapy and hypnotherapy. Sometimes addressing adult upsets and relationship difficulties in a family, or sibling issues or bullying, reduces a child's anxiety and improves sleep. As parents you may also value individual support.
Viveka hosts a number of groups that may be helpful. Our sleep clinic targeted to families with young children has impressive results, while Babiesknow and Babiesgrow workshops provide advice around family sleeping.
The range of complementary therapies available at Viveka often provide relief, frequently under the guidance from a paediatrician. A therapy such as cranial osteopathy may help your child relax by reducing or releasing tension in the nervous system. Tension may sometimes have its roots in digestive discomfort, anxiety or even depression. Some children respond to gentle homeopathic remedies, and acupressure can be used.
Did you know?
All children and adults follow a sleep cycle ranging from deep, dreamless sleep, to light REM (dream sleep) and even wakefulness, during the course of one night. For many children, dreams can become very vivid often between the ages of 7 and 9. And among teenagers, extra sleep - including late morning lie-ins - is a healthy norm. Hormones and growth spurts play a role in duration and quality of sleep at every stage.
