Sleep disorders in children and adolescents

Zurich's specialized sleep consultation approach

Sleep is vital for the proper physical, emotional, and cognitive development of children and adolescents. Yet, nearly a third of them suffer from sleep disorders at some point. In Zurich, a specialized consultation offers a comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach to better understand and treat these difficulties.

Physiological aspects of sleep

Children's sleep changes with age. It consists of several stages, including slow-wave sleep (essential for physical recovery) and REM sleep (related to memory and emotions). The amount of sleep needed varies depending on age:

• Infant: 14 to 17 hours per day

• School-age child: 9 to 11 hours

• Teenager: about 8 to 10 hours

Circadian rhythm disturbances (such as going to bed too late) are common, especially during adolescence, when a natural shift in the internal clock occurs.

Psychological and behavioral aspects

Sleep disturbances are not just physiological — they are often influenced by:

• The family environment

• Anxiety or stress

• Poor sleep habits (lack of rituals, exposure to screens)

• Attachment or separation difficulties in young children

In adolescents, conflicts, academic overwork or social pressure can also disrupt sleep.

Consultation procedure

The Zurich sleep consultation is based on a structured approach, including:

1. Complete anamnesis : discussions with the family, review of habits, identification of stress factors or associated symptoms.

2. Standardized tools : sleep diary, validated questionnaires (BEARS, SDSC, etc.).

3. Clinical assessment : to exclude organic or neurological causes.

4. Additional tests (if necessary): polysomnography, EEG, ENT test.

5. Psychological assessment : in case of suspicion of anxiety disorders, ADHD, attachment disorders, etc.

The Consultation Model for Infants and Young Children

For the little ones, a specific model is offered, with particular attention to:

• The parent-child relationship

• Bedtime rituals

• The baby's ability to self-soothe

The approach aims to support parents in understanding their child's sleep, establishing reassuring routines and strengthening emotional security.

Tools such as video analysis of interactions or network interventions (pediatrician, psychologist, midwife, etc.) can be used.

Interdisciplinary approach

The team is composed of pediatricians, neurologists, psychologists, ENT specialists, developmental specialists, and sometimes physiotherapists, working closely together. This approach allows us to consider sleep as a holistic phenomenon—biological, emotional, and relational.

Proposed Interventions and Treatments

Depending on the situation, support may include:

• Sleep hygiene tips

• Parental support and psychoeducational support

• Behavioral or family therapy

• Medical treatments if necessary (e.g. melatonin)

• Coordination with schools or other stakeholders

Conclusion

Good sleep isn't just about getting enough sleep, but also about quality and consistency tailored to each child's needs. In Zurich, the sleep consultation offers a human, individualized, and multidisciplinary approach to support children, adolescents, and their families in their search for a peaceful balance between day and night.

Reference

Häge, K. & Datta, A. (2024). Sleep disorders in children and adolescents – Proceedings of the Zurich Sleep Consultation . Physiopaed, Bulletin 42 , pp. 16–19.