Sleep issues in children
Tamariki need sleep to grow and develop. Some tamariki have sleep problems. These can happen at any age. There are many reasons why your child may have trouble sleeping.
The Murdoch Children's Research Institute has a range of helpful resources. These can support you and your whānau (family) to manage your child’s sleep problems.
Podcasts
Have a listen to the Murdoch Children's Research Institute Podcasts with Professor Harriet Hiscock and Associate Professor Emma Sciberras. These podcasts may help you identify sleep problems in your child, from infancy through to secondary school. They also offer simple, easy-to-follow steps to improve your child’s sleep and overall health.
Sleep strategies to help your child sleep well
Take a look at sleep strategies that can help with common sleep problems. Some children have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early. Research shows these strategies work well for many families.
Online sleep programme
The Good Nights Programme is a New Zealand developed sleep programme. It was originally developed to support tamariki with autism-takiwātanga. Much of the content is helpful for all parents and whānau who want to support their child to sleep better. You can work through the modules in your own time.
Find out more about sleep and the best way to support your child to improve their sleep.
Module 1: Understanding your child's sleep
Module 2: Sleep scheduling
Module 3: Creating optimum conditions for sleep
Module 4: Teaching children healthy sleep habits
Module 5: Relaxation
Module 6: Promoting sleep-conducive behaviour
Module 7: Creating a sleep support plan
Visit the Good Nights Programme website to see all the modules
