I do not mean to imply that all naughty behavior is due to lack of sleep, but I definitely think that sleep issues and behavior problems go hand-in-hand. As first time parents, many of us learned how quickly our judgment and basic function skills could be affected by lack of sleep but it can be one of those realities we overlook when looking at reasons for our children’s behavior.
I think many people assume that if a child is sleep deprived, he or she will be sleepy or tired or lethargic. In fact, many sleep deprived kids may be just the opposite—the may be wired and anxious or nervous and on edge. They might be quick to anger and throw tantrums. I was always amazed that when my kids were over-tired, they seemed to have unlimited energy to put up a horrible fight and throw a big temper tantrum. Well-rested kids just seem to be able to take things more in stride and are more flexible in dealing with life’s inevitable changes. A tired child is often a cranky one—or she may have a hard time making good choices.
If you are having behavior issues with your child, check his sleep schedule. Kids need more sleep when they are going through a growth spurt (and before) or their activities have changed. Ordinary things like starting school, taking on a new sport or activity, or going through some sort of transition can all make a child extra tired and there may be need for a nap or getting to bed earlier in the evening. Children’s sleep needs do not stay static or go along a linear progression. Try encouraging more sleep first to see if the questionable behaviors lessen or improve. While this will not be the solution to everything, it can be the reason behind some temporary behavior problems.