Child sleepwalking at night: what to do?

Sleepwalking (somnambulism) is a common childhood sleep behavior. It happens when a child is partially awake but not fully conscious, usually during deep sleep. Most children outgrow it by adolescence. While it can be alarming to watch, it is generally not a sign of a serious problem. Your main job is to keep your child safe and help them return to sleep.

What is happening

During a sleepwalking episode, your child may sit up, walk around, or perform routine actions like opening doors. Their eyes may be open, but they are not truly awake and will not remember the event. Episodes typically last a few minutes and often occur early in the night.

What to do first

1. Stay calm and do not panic. Your child is not in distress.
2. Gently guide them back to bed. Use a soft voice and light touch on the elbow or shoulder. Avoid shaking or shouting.
3. Do not try to wake them forcefully. Waking a sleepwalker can cause confusion or agitation. If they wake on their own, speak calmly and help them settle.
4. Keep the area safe. If they are moving toward stairs or a dangerous area, gently steer them away.
5. Note the time and duration. This helps you and a doctor understand the pattern.

What NOT to do

• Do not shake, slap, or shout at your child to wake them.
• Do not block their path abruptly or grab them roughly, which can cause a startle response.
• Do not give sleep medications without medical advice.
• Do not ignore safety hazards like open windows, stairs, or sharp objects.

When to call for help

Call your local emergency services if your child is injured, has a seizure, is difficult to wake and confused for a long time, or if the sleepwalking leads to a dangerous situation (such as leaving the house).

Contact your child's doctor if:

• Episodes happen often (several times a week) or are increasing.
• Your child is very young (under 5) and episodes are frequent.
• Sleepwalking includes violent or risky behavior.
• There are other symptoms like daytime sleepiness, snoring, or breathing pauses during sleep.
• Episodes start after age 12 or continue into adolescence.

What to monitor

Keep a simple log of when episodes occur, how long they last, and what your child does. Also note any triggers such as late bedtimes, tiredness, fever, or stress. This information can help your doctor if needed.

How to prevent it

• Keep a regular sleep schedule. Ensure your child gets enough sleep and goes to bed at a consistent time.
• Create a calm bedtime routine. Limit screen time before bed and avoid stimulating activities.
• Make the bedroom and home safe. Use gates on stairs, lock windows, and clear clutter from floors. Consider a bell on the bedroom door if your child tends to wander.
• Address stress or anxiety. Talk to your child about any worries and help them relax before bed.

Most children outgrow sleepwalking without treatment. Stay calm, focus on safety, and keep a log to share with your doctor if you have concerns.

This is general information and not a substitute for professional medical advice. In an emergency, call your local emergency services.