Sleep Disorders: Assessment and Treatment in Preschool-Aged Children

Sleep issues are common in preschoolers, defined in this article as ages 3 to 5 years. Sleep deprivation can cause behavioral and cognitive issues. Sleep issues seen in the preschool years include insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, parasomnias, and restless legs syndrome. Sleep issues seem to exacerbate mood and attention disturbances. Conversely, children with psychiatric disorders are likely to have sleep problems. Treatment of sleep issues is important for long-term mental health and optimization of functioning.