Sleeping difficulties are common. Most of the time, it’s nothing to worry about. It is not dangerous to occasionally have a night when you get too little sleep. But if you sleep too little night after night, get tired, feel bad and function less in everyday life, you may need help getting better sleep.

Many people feel tired during the early days of being a parent and struggle to adjust to their family’s new sleeping habits, this is common and part of the big transition to becoming a parent. It is common for young children to have difficulty falling asleep and waking up frequently during the night, despite this, most young children get enough sleep. As a parent, getting enough sleep during the toddler years can be a bigger challenge.

If there are two parents in the family, think about how to work together and how you can share the nights. If there are people in your network, such as friends or relatives, there is nothing wrong in asking them for help with practical matters that can make everyday life easier and that let your child sleep away with someone in your network who you trust.

Some children periodically experience greater problems with their sleep, for example that they find it more difficult to fall asleep, wake up more often or have recurring nightmares. If you notice that your child’s sleep is deteriorating or if you as a parent are unsure and want advice and support regarding your child’s sleep, it is good to contact a children’s health centre. Tell them about the situation. If more support is needed, a children’s health centre can contact a psychologist or paediatrician.

Long-term disrupted sleep in parents of young children can lead to sleeping disorders. Sleeping disorders negatively affects your cognitive ability and patience, making it difficult to find solutions to get through the night. Help each other if there are two of you, ask for advice from a children’s health centre and support from your network. Lower the demands on yourself as a parent. If you have a sleeping disorder, you can also contact a doctor at a health centre for help.