[Sleep disorders in healthy children follows often a "learnt" behavioral pattern. Diurnal rhythm disturbances are dominating among children with functional disabilities].

A children's sleep disorders clinic was started as a project supported by the Swedish National Board for Health and Welfare in 1994. During the first three years 71 children, 21 girls and 50 boys aged 0.5-26 years, were clinically examined by a child neurologist/somnologist and a child psychologist. Psychological follow-up was offered. Twenty-five children were healthy, in the others several types of medical conditions were found. Twenty-five children were mentally retarded. In children with physical impairments the most common sleep problems were circadian sleep disturbances, in the healthy ones habitual insomnias were the most common finding. Taking a detailed history was important for correct sleep diagnosis and was often therapeutic. In healthy children with habitual insomnia psychological support was often successful. Melatonin was of benefit in circadian sleep disorders, and only in these. Other medications were used in a restrictive way, mostly as a temporary support.