Sleep is essential for people of all ages to maintain their health. Sleep deprivation in children can make them moody, irritable, and cause problems at school. Obesity, high blood pressure, and depression may be more common in children who don't get enough sleep over time.

There are several tactics we can use to assist our child and ourselves to get more sleep. Giving our kid melatonin before bed can be a positive start toward obtaining some good, solid sleep. Here's what parents should know about melatonin and when children should use melatonin.

What is Melatonin?

Melatonin is a hormone that our bodies naturally make. It has a lot to do with feeling sleepy and falling asleep. During the day, we have a low level of melatonin in our bodies. Then, as we get closer to bedtime, our brains manufacture more of it.

Melatonin in supplements is similar to the type produced by our brains. A small dose is taken an hour or so before bedtime can assist our minds and bodies recognize that it's time to sleep.

What is the proper timing and dose for kids?

Once your toddler's doctor has permitted you to use melatonin supplements, start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed. Your pediatrician should be able to advise you on the appropriate dosage range for your child. Many children respond to 0.5–1 milligram, so start there and gradually increase by 0.5 milligrams every few days with your child's doctor's approval.

The dose of melatonin for toddlers should be given approximately an hour before bedtime.

Is there any side effect of it?

Drowsiness or daytime sleepiness is the most common side effect. However, there are other less common side effects as well such as perspiration, eye issues, and stomach ache.

Any interactions that may occur?

Before giving your child melatonin, check with his doctor to make sure it won't interact with any of his other prescriptions. People with epilepsy and those using blood thinners are at risk of experiencing negative side effects.