Somnambulism in children 1-3 years

Somnambulism (sleepwalking) in children 1-3 years

Somnambulism, also called sleepwalking, is another type of parasomnia that, like night terrors, occurs during the deep sleep phase. It is a condition in which a child performs automatic actions (walking, sitting, talking) while remaining asleep. Although the peak of somnambulism occurs at school age, the first episodes can appear in toddlers as soon as they have learned to walk confidently.

What happens in the brain during somnambulism?

The mechanism is similar to that of night terrors. It is a partial arousal from deep sleep. The part of the brain responsible for motor control becomes active, while consciousness, memory, and critical thinking remain "turned off". That is why the child does not remember their nocturnal adventures. The eyes are usually open, but the gaze is "blank".

Causes and triggers

There is a clear genetic predisposition to somnambulism. Factors that can provoke sleepwalking episodes in toddlers:

• Fatigue and disrupted sleep schedule. This is the most important trigger.
• Stress and emotional tension.
• High fever.
• Sleep apnea, because frequent awakenings can trigger an incomplete transition to wakefulness.

Main rule: Safety

Somnambulism itself is not dangerous, but the child's actions in this state can be. They may fall down stairs or go outside. Therefore, the main task for parents is to ensure a safe environment: install barriers on stairs, close entrance doors and windows, remove sharp objects. Waking the child during an episode is not recommended; it is better to calmly and gently guide them back to bed. For general mechanisms, read the article "Somnambulism".