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What to Do When Your Child Won’t Sleep

What to Do When Your Child Won’t Sleep

Robin November 4, 2025 0

Address Nighttime Fears and Anxiety

What to Do When Your Child Won’t Sleep
A parent gently soothes their child, who clutches a favorite stuffed animal beside a softly glowing night light. | Generated by Google Gemini

Nighttime fears and anxiety are common in children and can make falling asleep difficult. Help your child by acknowledging and validating their feelings, reassuring them that fears are normal. Offer comfort objects, like a favorite stuffed animal or blanket, and practice calming techniques such as deep breathing or guided imagery together.

Maintain a soothing presence at bedtime without reinforcing fears. If anxiety persists, consult a pediatrician or child psychologist. For more tips on managing bedtime fears, visit the HealthyChildren.org guide by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

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Limit Stimulants and Screen Time

What to Do When Your Child Won’t Sleep
A smiling child sets aside a tablet to enjoy a bowl of colorful, healthy snacks at the kitchen table. | Generated by Google Gemini

Reducing your child’s exposure to stimulants like caffeine and sugar, especially in the hours before bedtime, can help prevent difficulties in falling asleep. Electronic devices such as tablets, smartphones, and televisions emit blue light, which can suppress melatonin and delay sleep onset.

Experts recommend turning off screens at least one hour before bedtime to promote better sleep. Establishing tech-free routines in the evening supports a calm transition to sleep. For more on the effects of screens and stimulants, refer to the Sleep Foundation’s sleep hygiene guide for children.

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Be Patient and Stay Consistent

What to Do When Your Child Won’t Sleep
A parent gently hugs their child in soft lamplight, showing bedtime patience as part of a calming nightly routine. | Generated by Google Gemini

Building healthy sleep habits takes time, and it’s normal to encounter setbacks along the way. Consistently following routines and boundaries reinforces expectations and helps your child adjust. If progress seems slow, remain calm and avoid making major changes—consistency is key.

Celebrate small successes and gently guide your child back on track after disruptions, such as illness or travel. Remember, patience and perseverance are essential as your child learns new habits. For more advice on fostering lasting sleep routines, visit Raising Children Network, an evidence-based parenting resource.

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Conclusion

What to Do When Your Child Won’t Sleep
A parent gently cradles their sleeping child, sharing a peaceful and loving moment at bedtime. | Generated by Google Gemini

Helping your child develop healthy sleep habits involves a combination of understanding underlying causes, establishing consistent routines, creating a restful environment, and setting loving boundaries. By addressing fears, limiting stimulants, and staying patient and consistent, you can make bedtime a smoother process for the whole family.

Remember, progress may take time, and each child is unique. If sleep difficulties continue despite your efforts, consider consulting your pediatrician or a sleep specialist for additional support. For more comprehensive guidance, visit the Sleep Foundation’s resources for parents.

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