Toddler Trouble - Sleep Problems

Sleep problems are common in children aged between three and eight years, although younger (and older) children may experience them also. Thankfully, with patience, understanding and a few disturbed nights, most children grow out of them – my three children included!

In many cases sleep problems in toddlers are caused by night terrors and/or night mares. In fact, night terrors occur in 5 to 15% of children. However, other causes may include enuresis (bedwetting) or sleep apnea (disturbed breathing), often in children with large tonsils (for advice and help see www.danielakarsten.co.uk). Pediatricians distinguish between night terrors and night mares: The essential differences being that night terrors occur in the first part of the night,  before “dream sleep” and about 3-4 hours after bedtime, and night mares are experienced during the REM dream sleep state, generally later into the night. Despite often being characterised by crying, whimpering and calling out, children by and large have little recollection of night terrors, but may remember their nightmare (bad dream) – monsters are a common theme!

WHY?
As we know from previous pieces in this series, (Toddler Trouble: Toilet Training & Tantrumming), toddlers are hothouses of change and development, trying to adapt to and understand a complex world with limited tools. It is therefore not surprising that their actively developing brains have difficulty processing information received at times. And sleep is when much of the processing occurs. Added to which some children are affected by change and new situations, ranging from a new house, new family dynamics, new school or even a new bed/bedroom. Children who are overtired, unwell or in a feverish state may also experience sleep problems. Some medications can also disturb sleep.

HOW TO HELP?
• A regular, relaxing bedtime routine
• 3 C’s – Calmness, Cuddles and a consistent Comforting presence
• Try to identify, talk about and reassure your toddler about any anxieties expressed before bedtime.
• Avoid “scary” books, programs, experiences, particularly before bedtime – remember this is subjective. My son was scared of clowns and Father Christmas!
• A nightlight, open bedroom door or access to a lit up area and/or parent’s room can help

WHAT NEXT?
Fears and anxieties, enuresis and sleep apnea, resulting in sleep disturbance are not uncommon in the toddlers I see in my practice – generally when the problem has become chronic (long term) and there seems little alternative help available. Homeopathy provides a natural and non-toxic option to restore the toddler to a healthy sleep pattern. Remedies I may consider, include Phosphorus or Calcarea Carb. for fear of night and the dark. In more severe cases of night terrors Stramonium may be considered, while Tub. may be prescribed for sleep apnea as a consequence of enlarged tonsils.

 It is always advisable to consult with a qualified homeopath before administering remedies