Are my child’s sleeping problems connected to their development? 

Parenting Perspective 

The Link Between Sleep and Development 

Sleep difficulties are very common in young children and can happen at different stages of their development. Growth spurts, teething, new fears or changes in routine can all disrupt how well a child sleeps. Sometimes, underlying developmental needs can also play a role. For example, children with autism, ADHD or sensory processing challenges may find it harder to settle down, stay asleep or feel calm at bedtime because their minds and bodies do not switch off easily. 

Signs to Watch For and Creating a Calm Routine 

Signs to look out for include frequent night waking, taking a very long time to fall asleep, restless movements or feeling very anxious about sleeping alone. A calm bedtime routine can really help. Try a warm bath, a favourite story and a comforting Dua to help your child feel safe and ready for sleep. It also helps to make their environment peaceful by turning off screens and avoiding loud noises before bed. 

When to Seek Professional Help 

If your child’s sleep struggles are severe, affect their mood or learning during the day or you feel there could be a deeper developmental need, speak to your GP or a sleep specialist. Keeping a simple sleep diary that shows bedtime, waking times and any patterns you notice can be very useful. 

Be patient with your child and with yourself. Good sleep is not only a physical need, but also closely linked to your child feeling safe, settled and emotionally secure. Small changes and steady routines can make a big difference over time. Trust that with gentle support, better sleep is possible for both of you. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, we are reminded that sleep itself is a blessing and a sign of Allah Almighty’s mercy, and so is the struggle that sometimes comes with it. Sleepless nights can test parents deeply, but they also become moments to renew Dua and hope. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Furqan (25), Verse 47: 

‘And it is He who has made the night for you as clothing and sleep [a means for] rest and made the day a resurrection. ‘

This Ayah reminds us that sleep is part of our natural rhythm, given by Allah Almighty for comfort and renewal. When a child finds rest difficult, your calm efforts to comfort them are not wasted. 

It is recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 3671, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

‘Be kind to children and perfect in your upbringing of them. ‘

This Hadith Shareef inspires parents to meet each need with gentleness, even when exhausted. Make Dua for your child’s sleep to be easy, read Ayat-ul-Kursi or Surah Al Ikhlas over them before bed, and trust that your efforts are seen by Allah Almighty. Caring for your child through long nights can strengthen your bond and your faith, each hour of lost sleep, met with patience and Sabr, brings reward and Barakah. Trust that this phase, like all phases, can pass with wise care and Tawakkul, leaving your child feeling loved and secure under the protection of Allah Almighty.