Sleep disorder may not be the first thing that comes to mind when a child is irritable, can’t focus or behaves badly. Maybe it should be. About 69 percent of children under 10 have some type of sleep disorder, says the National Sleep Foundation. They’re simply not getting enough rest at night, and their daytime activities and behavior suffer.

Pediatric sleep problems often go undiagnosed but usually can be corrected or controlled. Sleep apnea, a common disorder in adults, is also common in children. Marked by gasps or pauses in breathing, sleep apnea in children can be caused by obesity, allergies, asthma or acid reflux disease. The most common cause is oversized tonsils.

Other pediatric sleep disorders are sleepwalking and night terrors, which children eventually outgrow. Bed-wetting can disrupt sleep, especially if it recurs in a child who has been potty-trained for some time. Children also can be affected by restless leg syndrome at night.

Signs of Trouble
Parents, teachers and caregivers should watch for these symptoms during the day:

Nighttime symptoms include:

If you’re concerned, talk with your child’s doctor. Learn more from our Sleep Disorders Center. Call 908-788-6392