Supporting Young People Through Sleep Difficulties.

We help kids and teens overcome sleep struggles so they can rest well, recharge and feel ready for each day.

The Bigger Picture

Good sleep is essential for learning, mood and overall wellbeing. When kids don’t get enough rest, everything feels harder — from paying attention in class to managing emotions at home.

Sleep difficulties are common in children and teens. They might show up as trouble falling asleep, frequent waking during the night or struggling to wake in the morning. While occasional restless nights are normal, ongoing sleep problems can affect a child’s health, behaviour and confidence.

Understanding Sleep Difficulties In Kids & Teens.

Sleep struggles can look different depending on the child’s age and circumstances. Common signs include:

Taking a long time to fall asleep
Night waking or nightmares
Difficulty getting out of bed in the morning
Daytime sleepiness, irritability or poor concentration
Anxiety around bedtime or sleeping alone

Sleep difficulties are not always solved by a “quick fix.” They often have underlying causes such as stress, anxiety, inconsistent routines or health conditions. Therapy can help children understand their sleep patterns and develop healthier habits.

Our Approach To Supporting Kids & Teens With Sleep Difficulties.

At Unbound Minds, we use evidence-based strategies that address both the causes and effects of poor sleep.

Support can include:

Sleep Hygiene Education: Teaching families how to create routines and environments that support healthy sleep.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I): Evidence-based techniques for reducing anxiety and unhelpful thought patterns around sleep.
Relaxation and Mindfulness Skills: Practical strategies to calm the mind and body before bed.
Behavioural Approaches: Gradual steps to reduce bedtime resistance, night waking or reliance on parents to fall asleep.
Family Coaching: Helping parents set consistent routines and respond effectively to sleep challenges.

We work alongside families to ensure strategies are realistic, sustainable and effective in daily life.

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Helpful Answers For Parents.

Sleep is essential for a child’s growth, learning, and emotional wellbeing. When sleep becomes a struggle, the whole family feels the impact. Parents often wonder whether their child’s sleep patterns are normal, how to manage bedtime battles, and what might help them settle more easily. At Unbound Minds, we work with children and parents to identify what’s getting in the way of good sleep and to create practical routines that restore rest for the whole household.

How does Unbound Minds support children with sleep difficulties?

We explore the underlying causes - from anxiety and overstimulation to irregular routines - and use evidence-based strategies to improve sleep. We also coach parents on bedtime routines that make nights calmer and more predictable.

Do you work with parents as well as children?

Yes. Parental involvement is key. We guide parents in creating consistent routines, reducing unhelpful sleep associations, and supporting children in developing self-settling skills.

How can I tell if my child’s sleep difficulties are a problem or just part of growing up?

It’s normal for children to occasionally resist bedtime or wake at night. It may be a problem if difficulties are persistent, leave your child overtired during the day, or affect mood, learning, or behaviour.

What should I do if bedtime always turns into a battle?

Keep routines calm, consistent, and predictable. Avoid stimulating activities before bed and build in winding-down rituals like reading or quiet play. At Unbound Minds, we help parents tailor routines to their child’s temperament and family life.

Can emotional wellbeing affect sleep?

Yes. Stress, anxiety, and low mood can all disrupt sleep. That’s why we take a holistic approach, looking at both practical bedtime strategies and the emotional factors that may be affecting rest.

Take TheFirst Step.

If your child is struggling with sleep, the right support can make a big difference. We’re here to help them — and your family — find better rest.

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Unbound Minds provides general mental health information and professional psychological services. This website is not a substitute for personalised medical or mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are in crisis or require urgent support, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or seek help from your nearest emergency service.