10 FACTORS THAT AFFECT SLEEP

1 Temperament

Children who are more difficult as infants are more likely to have problems sleeping as they get older.

2 Child age

Younger children are more likely to have sleep problems than older children.

3 Previous sleep problems

Sleep problems tend to continue over time. Children who have had sleep problems earlier in life are likely to continue to have sleep problems, if changes are not made.

4 Internalizing problems

Children with mental health issues like anxiety and depression are more likely to have sleep problems.

5 Externalizing problems

Children with problems following rules, trouble focusing or who oppose their parents are more likely to have sleep problems.

6 Staying with child until they fall asleep

When a parent regularly stays with their child until the child falls asleep, the child is more likely to develop a problem.

7 Parenting style

Parents who have inconsistent rules, do not enforce limits or who react very strongly to small things are more likely to have children with sleep problems.

8 Bedtime routines

When a child has a consistent bedtime routine — activities are predictable and are in the same order each night — they are less likely to develop a problem.

9 Electronics use

When a child uses electronics, especially in their bedroom and close to bedtime, they are more likely to develop a problem.

10 Socioeconomic status

Children from homes with lower incomes and with parents with lower education are more likely to develop sleep problems.