Most sleep disturbances in children are normal developmental phases, NOT disorders! True sleep disorders like sleep apnea, sleepwalking, and restless leg syndrome affect only a small percentage of children and are very treatable. If your bachcha raat ko jagta hai occasionally or has nightmares, it's likely normal - but this guide will help you identify when professional help is needed.
Watch: How to Know When Your Baby Is Sleepy 😴 | Baby Sleep Cues Every Parent Should Know
What happens: Child's breathing stops briefly during sleep due to blocked airway.
Signs to watch:
Common cause: Enlarged tonsils or adenoids (very common in Indian children)
What happens: Uncomfortable sensations in legs causing urge to move them.
Signs to watch:
Note: Children may not be able to explain the sensation properly.
What happens: Child walks around or does activities while still asleep.
Signs to watch:
Important: Most common in ages 4-8, often runs in families.
| Feature | Night Terrors | Nightmares |
|---|---|---|
| When | 1-2 hours after sleeping | Later in night (REM sleep) |
| Awareness | Child doesn't wake, doesn't remember | Child wakes up, remembers dream |
| Behavior | Screaming, thrashing, inconsolable | Crying, seeks comfort |
| Eyes | Open but not seeing | Open, alert |
| Duration | 5-30 minutes | Brief once awake |
| Age | 3-8 years most common | Any age |
Usually harmless! Very common in children. No treatment needed unless associated with other problems.
| Age | Normal Sleep Behavior | When to Investigate |
|---|---|---|
| 0-1 year | Frequent waking, irregular patterns | Loud snoring, blue lips during sleep |
| 1-3 years | Occasional nightmares, resistance to bedtime | Nightly terrors, chronic snoring |
| 3-6 years | Sleepwalking episodes, night fears | Daily sleepwalking, daytime sleepiness |
| 6-12 years | Occasional bad dreams | Snoring + poor school performance |
See doctor urgently if:
Schedule appointment if:
Bedtime Routine (Sone Ki Aadat):
For Sleepwalking:
For Night Terrors:
For Nightmares:
For RLS:
| Condition | Treatment Approach |
|---|---|
| Sleep Apnea | Adenoid/tonsil removal (very effective), CPAP if needed |
| Sleepwalking | Usually outgrown, safety measures, scheduled awakening |
| Night Terrors | Usually outgrown, address triggers |
| Nightmares | Reassurance, anxiety management if frequent |
| RLS | Iron supplementation if deficient, lifestyle changes |
When medication is needed:
A: This sounds like night terrors (raat ka darr) - very different from nightmares. Night terrors are common between ages 3-8 and usually harmless. Don't try to wake the child - stay nearby for safety. Most children outgrow them by age 12. If happening every night or causing injury, consult your pediatrician.
A: Occasional light snoring is normal, but loud snoring every night is NOT normal in children. It could indicate enlarged tonsils/adenoids or sleep apnea. Watch for: breathing pauses, gasping, sleeping with mouth open, and daytime tiredness. If present, definitely see an ENT specialist - many children need adenoid/tonsil surgery which dramatically improves sleep.
A: Sleepwalking is quite common in children ages 4-8 and usually harmless. It often runs in families. Your main job is to keep the environment safe - use gates on stairs, lock external doors, remove hazards. Don't wake the child - gently guide back to bed. Most children outgrow it by teenage years. If happening frequently or child is doing dangerous things, consult a sleep specialist.
A: This could be Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) or growing pains. With RLS, children describe an uncomfortable "need to move" feeling in legs, worse at bedtime. Try: warm bath, leg massage, regular daytime exercise, and check with doctor about iron levels (iron deficiency worsens RLS). Growing pains usually affect both legs and respond to massage and warmth.
A: NO! Sleep medications are rarely needed for children and should never be given without doctor's prescription. Most sleep problems are solved with: consistent sleep schedule, good sleep hygiene, addressing underlying issues (anxiety, screen time, etc.). If problems persist, see a sleep specialist who will find the root cause rather than just prescribing medication.
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This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. Last updated: January 2025
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