How Many Hours Should Children Sleep to Avoid Insomnia?

A major challenge for parents often involves their children’s sleep, an issue that can affect all ages from infancy to adolescence. Adequate and restful sleep is essential as it significantly impacts their physical, mental, and cognitive functions. Insomnia is defined as a disturbance where children struggle to fall asleep or stay awake late into the night; in rarer cases, the problem involves waking up too early in the morning. Additionally, resistance to bedtime and requiring a parent’s presence to fall asleep are considered behavioral forms of insomnia. Insomnia can be classified as acute or chronic based on duration, severity, and frequency, significantly affecting children’s functionality and performance during the day. ‘Sleep is therapeutic, offering physical, mental, and cognitive rest, improving daily function,’ states Dr. Frinda Konstantopoulou, Child Psychiatrist and Family Therapist. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, recommended sleep hours are: Infants (4-12 months): 12-16 hours, Toddlers (1-2 years): 11-14 hours, Preschoolers (3-5 years): 10-13 hours, School-age children (6-12 years): 9-12 hours, Teenagers (13-18 years): 8-10 hours. Behavioral issues and mental health problems can also cause insomnia when no organic or environmental factors are present. Anxiety is one of the most common causes of psychogenic insomnia in children, just as in adults. Parents should build trust with their children to help them share concerns comfortably. The role of parents is crucial in teaching children from infancy that sleep follows a specific schedule and routine. Creating a relaxing pre-sleep environment and gradually leaving the room before the child falls asleep helps them learn to sleep independently. If insomnia persists, consulting a specialist may be necessary to address underlying issues effectively.