Sleepwalking is a sleep phenomenon where a person appears to wake partially and performs activities, yet remains largely asleep. This behavior is common in children, often a harmless, temporary phase they typically outgrow. Understanding this phenomenon can help parents manage episodes and support their child’s sleep health.
What Sleepwalking Looks Like
Sleepwalking in children involves a range of behaviors performed while still in a sleep state. A child might sit up, get out of bed, and walk around their room or the house. They may also perform routine activities, such as getting dressed, moving objects, or attempting to eat. During these episodes, their eyes are often open but may have a glazed or blank appearance, and they are difficult to awaken or communicate with.
Episodes commonly occur within the first few hours of sleep, during deep sleep stages. A child usually has no memory of the event the next morning. Sleepwalking affects approximately 5% to 15% of children, most often between ages 4 and 12. Many children outgrow sleepwalking as their nervous system matures, often by adolescence.
Understanding the Causes
Several factors contribute to sleepwalking in children, including genetics. Children with one parent who sleepwalks have a higher chance of also sleepwalking, increasing if both parents have a history of the condition. Sleep deprivation and fatigue are frequently linked to its occurrence. Stress, anxiety, or significant changes in a child’s routine can also play a role.
Physical factors like fever, illness, or certain medications, including sedatives, stimulants, and antihistamines, may contribute. Irregular sleep schedules or other underlying sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, can also make sleepwalking more likely. These factors can disrupt the normal sleep cycle, causing a child to partially awaken and engage in sleepwalking behavior.
Making the Environment Safe
Ensuring a child’s safety during sleepwalking episodes is important. Securing the home environment includes locking all windows and outside doors to prevent a child from wandering outside. Installing gates at stairways can prevent falls and injuries. Removing potential hazards from the child’s bedroom and surrounding areas, such as sharp objects, breakable items, or anything that could cause a tripping hazard, is advisable.
If an episode occurs, parents should avoid abruptly waking the child, as this can lead to confusion or disorientation. Instead, gently guide the child back to bed with calm, soothing words and minimal interaction.
Promoting good sleep hygiene can also help reduce episode frequency. Establishing a consistent bedtime and wake-up routine, even on weekends, supports a stable sleep-wake cycle. Creating a relaxing bedtime routine, such as a warm bath or quiet reading, in a dark, quiet, and comfortable sleep environment encourages restful sleep.
Knowing When to Consult a Doctor
While sleepwalking in children is often temporary, seeking medical advice is appropriate in specific circumstances. Parents should consult a doctor if episodes are frequent, such as several times a week or multiple times in a single night. Medical evaluation is also warranted if sleepwalking leads to injuries or places the child in dangerous situations, like falling down stairs or attempting to leave the house.
If sleepwalking continues into adolescence or young adulthood, or if accompanied by other concerning symptoms, a medical consultation is advisable. These symptoms might include breathing difficulties during sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, or unusual behaviors not typical of sleepwalking. A doctor can help determine if an underlying medical condition, another sleep disorder, or a medication is contributing to the sleepwalking, ensuring appropriate guidance and support for the child and family.