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Why Do Kids Hate Going to Sleep, While Adults Usually Love It?

Curious Kids: Why Do Children Resist Sleep?

The school holidays are here, and parents struggling to get their children to bed will no doubt be thinking: “What is wrong with you? I would do anything to get more sleep!” Children seem to do everything possible to avoid sleep, yet many adults can’t seem to get enough of it. It may seem that kids’ resistance to sleep, and adults’ longing for it, are underpinned by different factors. But it’s likely similar issues are at play for both.

How Much Sleep Is Enough?

Reports from the Sleep Health Foundation indicate that four in ten Australian adults don’t get enough sleep. We don’t know exactly what this number is for children, but one Swedish study showed it could be about the same for them. Research has shown that sleep is essential for a child’s development, but the amount needed varies with age. Children aged 3-5 years should get 10 to 13 hours of sleep daily, including naps — while those aged 6-12 years should get 9 to 11 hours. Adults 18 years and older should aim to sleep between 7 and 9 hours.

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Fear of Missing Out

Difficult behaviour around bedtime is the most common sleep issue among children. Refusing to get into (or stay) in bed, not settling into sleep, waking up during the night, getting up very early — all of these are examples of sleep behaviour problems in children. Such behaviours may start at a young age without a trigger, or may follow significant life events such as moving houses, family upsets or starting school. Children can also develop behavioural sleep problems due to FOMO (fear of missing out), or not understanding why the grown-ups are allowed to stay awake.

Bedtime Doesn’t Have to Be All-Out War

On the bright side, setting rules around sleep can help both children and adults overcome their sleep issues. Children and adults should both go to bed and wake up around the same time daily. They should also develop a consistent bedtime routine of around 30 to 60 minutes to prepare for sleep each night. This is especially important for children. It could include taking a warm bath or reading a book. Stimulating activities should be avoided, such as watching TV, using social media, playing video games or doing vigorous physical activity.

More Serious Sleep Disorders

Some sleep issues may not always be related to behaviour. It’s possible a sleep disorder may be causing issues around sleep for an adult or child. Examples of “parasomnias”, or abnormal sleep behaviours, include sleepwalking, sleep talking, nightmares and sleep terrors. These behaviours are generally more common in children than adults, although we don’t know why. Most children outgrow them as they age. Parasomnias can be caused by stress, traumatic life events and sleep loss or can also be hereditary.

Conclusion

While it may seem that kids’ resistance to sleep and adults’ longing for it are underpinned by different factors, similar issues are likely at play for both. Setting rules around sleep and developing consistent bedtime routines can help both children and adults overcome their sleep issues. Additionally, addressing more serious sleep disorders through medical treatment and establishing a sleep-friendly environment can also help. By understanding the factors that influence sleep and taking steps to improve sleep habits, we can all get the rest we need to thrive.

FAQs

Q: How can I get my child to sleep earlier?
A: Establish a consistent bedtime routine, limit stimulating activities before bedtime, and create a sleep-friendly environment.

Q: What are some common sleep disorders in adults?
A: Sleep apnoea, insomnia, and restless leg syndrome are common sleep disorders in adults.

Q: How can I overcome sleep deprivation?
A: Prioritize sleep, establish a consistent sleep schedule, and avoid stimulating activities before bedtime.

Q: What is the best way to establish a sleep routine?
A: Develop a consistent bedtime routine that includes relaxing activities, such as reading a book or taking a warm bath.