Many parents know the bedtime challenge all too well: the intricate blend of stories, lullabies and cuddles aimed at coaxing their children to wind down for bed. In search of a peaceful night’s sleep — for their kids and, let’s be honest, for themselves — parents often explore additional strategies to help their little ones relax and drift off on time.
In the quest for effective solutions, melatonin supplements have surged in popularity, hailed for their sleep-inducing capabilities. However, there are numerous questions and concerns surrounding the use of this supplement for children. Our editors have taken a closer look at melatonin’s use in managing sleep issues for children. We’ll explore the reasons behind the ongoing debate and present an alternative option for parents seeking a safe, effective way to support their child’s nighttime rest.
What Should Parents Know about Melatonin for Children?
Melatonin was initially celebrated for its natural occurrence in the body and potential to aid sleep. However, the conversation around melatonin for children has evolved. Healthcare professionals are now expressing concerns about the widespread use of melatonin for children.
In an in-depth article by The Sleep Foundation, Nilong Vyas, MD, breaks down what we know about melatonin for pediatric use and, more importantly, what we don’t know.
A key concern is the lack of extensive research on melatonin’s long-term effects on child development. Healthcare professionals also express apprehension due to the delicate balance of melatonin production in the body and the potential for over-the-counter supplements to disrupt this balance, which impacts hormonal development and sleep cycle regulation and can even lead to dependency.
Children who take melatonin supplements may experience symptoms like bedwetting, drowsiness, headaches and agitation, highlighting the importance of careful consideration before use, according to the The Sleep Foundation article.
Melatonin is considered a “dietary supplement”, so it is not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) because they do not oversee dietary supplements. Consequently, they have not approved or endorsed melatonin for adults or children.
Furthermore, the article goes on to say, that melatonin is not recommended for children under five years old because their circadian rhythms, which regulate sleep cycles, are still developing during these early years. Specifically, infants up to three months old have low levels of natural melatonin, which reflects their undeveloped sleep patterns.
As children grow, their sleep patterns continue to evolve, and by the age of five, external factors such as teething, separation anxiety and changes in routine become predominant influences on sleep duration and quality. Introducing melatonin during this critical period of circadian rhythm development could potentially interfere with the natural maturation of their sleep-wake cycles, making it advisable to seek alternative methods for improving sleep, according to the aforementioned article.
Many parents are seeking alternatives that are safe and effective without resorting to substances that may be habit-forming or disrupt their child’s natural sleep cycle.
Natural Sleep Supplements for Kids: Melatonin-Free Alternative
Founded by two dads seeking healthier alternatives for their own children, Hiya has emerged as a leader in kids wellness, backed by a collective of parents, pediatricians and nutritionists. Hiya’s commitment to providing pure, natural and effective solutions for children shows up when you dig deep into their ingredients list.
What Sets Hiya's Kids Bedtime Essentials Apart From Traditional Sleep Aids?
- Melatonin-Free: Hiya offers a natural blend that supports your child’s wind-down period before bed, without relying on external sleep-inducing hormones.
- Non-Habit Forming: Hiya’s formula ensures your child’s sleep routine can remain naturally regulated.
- Sugar-Free: With zero added sugars Hiya’s approach sidesteps the energy spikes and dental risks associated with sugary bedtime snacks. (Hiya uses natural sweeteners, monk fruit and mannitol, instead.)
- Clean Ingredients: Free from ‘gummy junk,’ such as gelatin and pectin, unnecessary preservatives, and artificial sweeteners, colors and preservatives, Hiya’s formula is as clean as it gets, ensuring nothing but the best for your child’s pre-sleep routine.
- Eco-Friendly and Kid-Friendly: Each refillable bottle comes with stickers, allowing kids to personalize their bottles and encouraging healthy habits. This keeps kids engaged and significantly reduces plastic waste.
Designed with your child’s well-being at heart, Hiya’s Kids Bedtime Essentials provides a natural and effective way to enhance their bedtime routine, ensuring a smooth transition to sleep. Hiya’s Kids Bedtime Essentials is a solution that meets the approval of both parents and healthcare professionals.
Choose Hiya’s Kids Bedtime Essentials for a Harmonious Bedtime Routine
Given its thoughtful formulation, focus on natural ingredients and innovative approach to children’s health, we believe Hiya’s Kids Bedtime Essentials is an excellent choice for parents looking for a melatonin-free way to support their child’s bedtime routine. Hiya not only meets but exceeds expectations, offering a healthier, happier bedtime experience for kids and peace of mind for parents.
