Behavioural sleep problems are the more common sleep issue that exist in young children. They are the actions and habits which include delayed sleep onset, irregular sleep patterns, calling out to parents or carers, getting out of bed or not wanting to sleep in their own bed.  

Having consistency in bedtime routines and sleep schedules may help with behavioural sleep problems. See Sleep hygiene for behavioural strategies to support your child with their sleep patterns. 

Sleep disorders are concerns with the quality, timing or amount of sleep a child is receiving each night, which impacts their day-to-day functioning. These include:  

• Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) 

• Insomnia 

• Narcolepsy 

• Restless leg syndrome 

• Sleepwalking 

• Night terrors 

Like all physical and emotional disorders, sleep disorders need to be properly investigated, diagnosed and treated.  Sleep disorders are a higher priority sleep disturbance which will require you to work alongside your child and health professionals or specialists. You may also be directed to implement some behavioural strategies.