Researchers have no evidence that babies inherit normal sleep patterns from their parents.
However, certain adult sleep disorders such as narcolepsy sometimes run in families. Also, if one or more members of your family has a sleep disturbance such as sleepwalking, sleep talking, or night terrors, your child is more likely to suffer from the disorder, too. Click here to learn about common sleep disturbances and how to cope with them, and see our reviews of books and Web sites that deal with sleep disorders. As with any source of medical or health care information, you should as a preliminary matter satisfy yourself that the credentials and experience of the source are suitable. The information provided through the Ask the Experts service is a general educational aid designed to help you discuss your unique medical or health concerns with your physician or qualified health care provider.