The best ways to manage sleep problems in young children

What is it about?

Health Visitors support families coping with infant sleep issues which are common in under-5s and linked to negative outcomes for the child and their families. Behavioural interventions such as ‘extinction’, controlled crying and gradual retreat are the recommended treatment. However, new understanding regarding infant brain development questions the use of interventions which promote leaving a young child to cry. These concerns have impacted on both parental and professional confidence in managing sleep issues. This article reviews current research to ascertain the success of behavioural interventions, the impact on maternal mood and infant mental health, and also considers parental perspectives on the controlled crying technique.

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Why is it important?

The article highlights the challenges parents face when caring for a sleep deprived child and the extensive impact that sleep disturbances can have. Effective interventions should be a public health priority for families requiring support. Within the UK, Health Visitors are responsible for providing a preventative family focused public health programme, delivering a range of interventions that identify risk factors in order to prevent ill health: supporting families in making healthy choices. This review should enable Health Visitors to understand the evidence when supporting families with infant sleep .

Perspectives