Childhood sleep disorders

The neurophysiologic systems that control sleep mature rapidly, and, as a result, the sleep patterns of even young children differ surprisingly little from those of the adult. Similarly, sleep problems in childhood do not represent disorders of function of a sort without adult analogs. Nevertheless, specific presentations and necessary modes of intervention may differ greatly because children and parents must be viewed as interactional units in the evaluation and treatment of sleep disorders, as the actions, concerns, and expectations of each have profound effects on the sleep of the other. Clinicians must approach the family of a sleepless child with this knowledge and understanding to provide help and to ensure resolution of the problem.