Hormone (sleep)
Melatonin (low dose)
Melatonin is overprescribed and overdosed in US kids. Low doses (0.3-1 mg) are as effective as 5 mg for sleep onset and have fewer side effects. Use it for a stretch, not forever.
Typical pediatric dose
Kids 4-12: 0.3-1 mg, 30 min before lights out. Teens: up to 3 mg.
Safety notes
Higher doses can cause vivid dreams, headaches, daytime grogginess. Talk to your pediatrician before nightly use beyond 4 weeks.