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What are effective sleep hygiene tips for children with hyperactive-impulsive ADHD? 

Helping children with hyperactive-impulsive ADHD sleep better can be challenging, but consistent bedtime routines and the right strategies can greatly improve sleep quality. Poor sleep often worsens behaviour the next day, undermining the progress made through ADHD therapy and increasing challenges with focus, emotional regulation, and morning transitions. 

While much of the sleep conversation focuses on ADHD in adults, establishing healthy sleep habits early can help prevent long-term struggles with regulation, attention, and routine that often persist into adulthood. 

Building better sleep routines for children with ADHD 

Here are simple, practical tips to improve sleep for kids with hyperactive-impulsive ADHD: 

  • Stick to the same bedtime and wake time 
    Consistency helps regulate the body’s internal clock and supports more restful sleep. 
  • Wind down with mindfulness 
    Deep breathing, body scans, or calming visualisations before bed can quiet racing thoughts and lower energy levels. 
  • Use structured behaviour strategies 
    Visual bedtime charts or token systems can encourage kids to complete tasks like brushing teeth or getting into pyjamas independently. 
  • Limit screen time and stimulation 
    Power down devices an hour before bed and replace screen time with quiet reading or music. 
  • Coordinate with school accommodations 
    If sleep issues are affecting daytime behaviour, schools may offer flexible start times, rest periods, or school accommodations to support learning. 

Good sleep hygiene strengthens everything from focus to mood, reinforcing the goals of ADHD therapy both at home and in the classroom. Visit providers like ADHD Certify for additional tools and guidance on holistic strategies to support your child’s wellbeing. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Hyperactive‑Impulsive ADHD

Lucia Alvarez, MSc, author for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.