How Does ADHD Impact Sleep Routines at Home? 

Children with ADHD often face difficulties in maintaining consistent sleep routines, which can affect their overall well-being. Due to the nature of ADHD, which includes challenges in impulse control and emotional regulation, these children may struggle with winding down at night, making it harder to establish a bedtime routine that promotes restful sleep. 

How It Helps 

The difficulties associated with ADHD sleep routines often stem from the child’s heightened energy levels or racing thoughts. This can lead to restlessness, making it harder for them to fall asleep at an appropriate time. Without a consistent bedtime routine, children with ADHD may experience disruptions in their sleep patterns, which, over time, can lead to sleep deprivation. 

Proper sleep hygiene is essential for children with ADHD. This involves creating a calm, structured environment that encourages relaxation before bed. Establishing a consistent bedtime, limiting screen time, and avoiding stimulating activities in the evening can help manage ADHD sleep routines more effectively. 

Incorporating a proper bedtime routine and practising sleep hygiene not only improves the child’s sleep quality but can also positively impact their mood and behaviour the following day. Adequate sleep is crucial in helping children with ADHD regulate their emotions and maintain better focus throughout the day. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.   

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Clinical interviews and History Taking.  

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

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

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.