My 9 year old son rolls his head back and forth multiple times while sleeping. Is this normal?

Question

He is aware of what he is doing and can stop when asked. We are concerned he is not getting a good nights rest for school. He does not hurt and does not have any discomfort. He often describes the incidents in detail and tells us how many times he has rolled. The time frame is wide as early as 9p and as late in the morning as 3a. Is this his way of winding down and relaxing himself or soothing the need to fall back asleep if aroused. Pls. help................

Answer 1

The official name is jactacio capitis nocturna. Other names are "Rhythmic Movement Disorder" and "Stereotypic Movement Disorder." In simple terms, it's the head banging or body rocking or other rhythmic movements that sufferers go through as they fall asleep. It's classed as a parasomnia (Parasomnia is simply another term denoting things that disturb normal sleep. Other parasomnias are sleepwalking and sleep talking.)

It's a common disorder of childhood. It may be associated to the comforting rocking motion babies experience while in the womb. It's quite normal up to the age of three or four. By that time the child should begin to grow out of the habit.

Answer 2

MARY L's answer is very good. But considering your son is 9 years old, I might consider taking him to a doctor for a sleep study. If it is what she said and he has not grown out of it, then maybe a doctor could prescribe something for your son.