What should I do if my child suffers from insomnia and cannot fall asleep?
Aug 24, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xie Zixing
Introduction
For children with insomnia, the underlying cause should first be identified and treated accordingly. In many cases, childhood insomnia results from excessive daytime sleep—meaning the child naps for extended periods during the day, leading to reduced sleepiness at night and poor nighttime sleep. This issue can often be addressed by gradually adjusting sleep habits: encouraging more outdoor activities and playtime during the day helps children feel sufficiently tired by evening, thereby promoting better nighttime sleep.
Insomnia is a relatively common phenomenon. Since infants and young children have no psychological stress, their sleep quality is generally good; however, even babies can experience insomnia. Infant insomnia can also negatively affect parents’ sleep, making timely intervention essential. So, what should be done when a child suffers from insomnia and cannot fall asleep?
What to Do When a Child Suffers from Insomnia and Cannot Fall Asleep
When a child experiences insomnia, the first step is to identify the underlying cause and implement targeted treatment. In many cases, childhood insomnia stems from excessive daytime napping—i.e., the child sleeps for extended periods during the day and thus feels less sleepy at night, resulting in poor nighttime sleep. This issue can be addressed by gradually adjusting sleep habits: encouraging more outdoor activities and playtime during the day helps promote better sleep at night. Alternatively, insomnia may arise from physical illness—for example, calcium deficiency, rickets, or vitamin D deficiency—all of which can disrupt sleep. In some cases, insomnia may even result from anemia caused by malnutrition. In such instances, medical evaluation and condition-specific treatment are necessary.
Calcium supplementation may exert calming and sleep-promoting effects in children. However, other medications—especially traditional Chinese patent medicines—are not recommended for pediatric use. It is crucial to identify the root causes of poor sleep in children. Vitamin D supplementation should begin under medical guidance two weeks after birth, at a daily dose of 400 IU; for children aged one year and older, the recommended daily intake is 600 IU, continuing until age two. Beyond age two, dosage should be adjusted according to the child’s individual needs. Additionally, calcium supplementation may be considered based on feeding patterns after initiating vitamin D and complementary feeding. Calcium has a calming effect on the nervous system and supports healthy sleep; therefore, ensuring adequate intake of both vitamin D and calcium can help soothe the brain and improve sleep. Other sedative or sleep-aid medications are discouraged, as they may hinder healthy infant development. For persistent sleep disturbances in infants, potential contributing factors—including genetics, environmental influences, and underlying disease—should be carefully evaluated, with medical consultation sought when necessary.
Even as a baby’s sleep habits gradually improve through consistent effort, vigilance must be maintained to consolidate these gains. Establishing and maintaining a regular daily routine—including consistent bedtimes—is essential. We hope this information proves helpful.
