Colman Noctor: This is the early years sleep advice every parent should know 

Child psychotherapist Dr Colman Noctor outlines common sleep challenges facing parents of little ones

A child’s inability to sleep is not a reflection on parents, whose role at every developmental stage is to be calm and reassuring. Picture: iStock

WHETHER it’s an exhausted parent whose baby won’t settle or is worried that leaving their whimpering child alone at night might cause long-term harm, sleep remains a common concern.

Sleep in early childhood is much more than just rest. It fosters growth, brain development, emotional regulation, and immunity.