Definition: Sleepwalking is not the same as insomnia, although many people often mistake insomnia for sleepwalking or other sleeping problems. Sleepwalking is a common sleep disturbance that usually occurs in young children. Usually the person affected will get up out of bed and wander around without noticing what they are doing. Many times sleepwalking occurs because of poor sleep habits. Usually your doctor can tell you if sleepwalking is normal for your child and provide you with tips for coaxing your child gently back to bed. Often it is best not to try to wake your child as this may cause them to develop a fear of sleeping or to develop other sleeping problems at night.
Also Known As: Sleep Walking
Alternate Spellings: sleep walking, sleepwalking
Examples: Mary's son was caught sleepwalking in the basement the other night, but thankfully she found him and escorted him back to bed. He didn't remember a thing the next morning.