Childhood Sleep Disorders
Good sleep is essential to a child's growth, learning, mood and overall wellbeing — and when sleep is disrupted, it affects the whole family. Dr Harvey Kok completed specialist sleep medicine training at Sydney Children's Hospital and provides comprehensive evaluation of paediatric sleep conditions, including obstructive sleep apnoea, snoring, and other patterns of disrupted sleep.
Common paediatric sleep concerns
Snoring, whether occasional or frequent
Pauses in breathing, gasping, or restless sleep
Difficulty settling or frequent night waking
Excessive daytime sleepiness or difficulty waking
Behavioural or attention difficulties linked to poor sleep quality
Unusual movements or breathing patterns noticed during sleep
Assessment & Management
Assessment begins with a detailed sleep history from parents and carers, alongside a clinical examination. Depending on your child's symptoms, this may be supported by a sleep study (polysomnography), which records breathing, oxygen levels, movement and sleep patterns overnight to help identify the underlying issue.
Treatment depends on the specific diagnosis and may involve simple behavioural and environmental strategies, treatment of contributing conditions such as allergies or enlarged tonsils and adenoids, or referral to other specialists such as ENT surgeons where relevant. Dr Kok will explain the findings clearly and work with your family to find a practical path forward.
Why good sleep matters
Untreated sleep disorders in children can affect growth, mood, behaviour, learning and long-term health. Identifying and addressing the underlying cause can lead to meaningful improvements in a child's daytime functioning and family life.
Next steps - Schedule an Assessment
If you have concerns about your child's sleep, contact Little Lungs to arrange an assessment, or speak with your GP about a referral.
Paediatric Respiratory & Sleep Services across Sydney & Newcastle
Whether your child has been recently diagnosed with a respiratory condition, you have concerns about their sleep, or you are simply looking for a specialist who will take the time to listen, Little Lungs is here for you. We are committed to helping children across Sydney breathe well, sleep well, and thrive.