What Can I Do If My Child Is Sleepwalking?
Watching your child get out of bed and walk around while still asleep can be frightening for any parent. Sleepwalking, also known as somnambulism, is a type of parasomnia—a group of sleep disorders that involve unusual behaviors during sleep. While it can look alarming, sleepwalking is actually far more common in children than adults, and in many cases, it can be effectively managed with the help of a sleep specialist.
At Restful Sleep MD in Philadelphia, Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown provides expert, compassionate care for children experiencing parasomnias, helping families restore safe, restful sleep.
Understanding Sleepwalking in Children
Sleepwalking typically occurs during deep non-REM sleep, most often in the first third of the night. Children who sleepwalk are not dreaming, and they usually have no memory of the episode the next morning. Episodes can range from simply sitting up in bed to walking through the house or attempting routine activities.
According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, up to 17% of children experience sleepwalking at some point, compared to only 1–4% of adults. The condition is most common between the ages of 4 and 12 and often runs in families.
Why Sleepwalking Happens
Sleepwalking is often triggered by factors that disrupt deep sleep, including:
Sleep deprivation or irregular sleep schedules
Stress or anxiety
Fever or illness
Certain medications
Underlying sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea
Genetics
Because a child’s brain is still developing, the mechanisms that regulate sleep and wakefulness are not yet fully mature, making parasomnias more likely during childhood.
Is Sleepwalking Dangerous?
While sleepwalking itself is not usually harmful, the risk of injury is a serious concern. Children may trip, fall, wander outside, or interact with sharp objects without awareness. Studies estimate that over 20% of sleepwalking children experience at least one injury related to an episode.
That’s why addressing sleepwalking isn’t just about improving sleep quality—it’s about protecting your child’s safety.
What Parents Can Do at Home
If your child sleepwalks, some immediate steps can help reduce risk:
Keep doors and windows locked
Remove obstacles and sharp objects from walkways
Use safety gates near stairs
Maintain a consistent bedtime routine
Ensure your child gets adequate sleep
It’s also important not to wake or startle a sleepwalking child. Instead, gently guide them back to bed.
When to See a Sleep Specialist
If sleepwalking episodes are frequent, intense, or causing injury—or if they persist into adolescence—it’s time to consult a sleep specialist. Evaluation may include a detailed sleep history, sleep diaries, or overnight sleep studies to rule out underlying conditions.
At Restful Sleep MD, Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown creates personalized treatment plans that address the root causes of parasomnias rather than just the symptoms.
Expert Care at Restful Sleep MD
Dr. Afolabi-Brown is a nationally recognized sleep medicine expert with nearly two decades of experience treating children and adults with parasomnias, including sleepwalking and night terrors. Families benefit from:
Holistic, individualized care focused on underlying triggers
Behavioral strategies and sleep hygiene guidance
Coordination of care for related sleep disorders
Concierge-level benefits, including priority appointments and direct access to Dr. Brown
Her compassionate approach helps families feel supported while creating safer, more restful nights for children.
Help Your Child Sleep Safely and Soundly
Sleepwalking can be unsettling, but with proper evaluation and expert guidance, it is highly manageable. Early intervention can reduce episodes, prevent injuries, and improve your child’s overall sleep health.
Contact Restful Sleep MD in Philadelphia today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown and take the first step toward safer, more restorative sleep for your child.
