Melatonin is generally thought to be safe for short-term use in children and adolescents, as long as it is under the guidance of a medical professional. While melatonin may help with childhood sleep issues, including those associated with ADHD and autism spectrum disorder, it may also cause side effects such as headaches or bedwetting. Long-term use may also delay puberty. Because of these potential issues, the American Academy of Pediatrics stresses the importance of medical guidance when adding melatonin to a child's bedtime routine.