Is bedtime a battle in your house? Do you find yourself wishing for just one night where your little one drifts off to dreamland without a fuss? You’re definitely not alone! Many parents grapple with occasional sleeplessness in their children, and sometimes, a gentle helping hand is needed. That’s where melatonin for kids can come into play.

Melatonin is a hormone your body naturally produces to regulate sleep and wake cycles. When used as a supplement, it can help nudge those cycles back on track for kids experiencing temporary sleep troubles. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best melatonin for kids that’s safe, effective, and actually kid-friendly?

We’ve done the research for you! We’ve rounded up 10 top-rated children’s sleep aids, looking at everything from dosage and ingredients to taste and parent reviews. Remember, always chat with your pediatrician before introducing any new supplement to your child’s routine.

Our Top Picks for the Best Melatonin for Kids

Here’s a detailed look at some of the best melatonin for kids on the market, designed to help your little ones (and you!) get the restful sleep everyone deserves.

Zarbee’s Kids Sleep Gummies with 1 mg Melatonin, Non-Habit…

Zarbee’s is often a go-to brand for parents, and their Kids Sleep Gummies are no exception. These natural strawberry-flavored gummies are sweetened with real honey and designed to gently guide your child to sleep without creating a habit. It’s a drug-free way to support your child’s natural sleep cycles, making it a popular choice among parents seeking a reliable children’s sleep aid.

• Key Features:

  • Each gummy delivers 1 mg melatonin (for ages 3-5, 1 gummy; ages 6+, 2 gummies).
  • Drug-free, non-habit forming formula.
  • Sweetened with real honey and natural sweeteners.
  • Free of drugs, alcohol, artificial sweeteners, high fructose corn syrup, gluten, and gelatin.
  • Pediatrician recommended sleep support brand for children.
  • Easy-to-chew, strawberry-flavored gummies.

• Pros:

  • Trusted pediatrician-developed brand.
  • Natural ingredients and free from common allergens/additives.
  • Clear dosage guide for different age groups.
  • Delicious strawberry flavor, generally well-liked by kids.
  • Non-habit forming for occasional sleeplessness.

• Cons:

  • Some children might not like the honey taste.
  • Gummy texture might not be preferred by all.

• User Impressions: Parents frequently praise Zarbee’s for its effectiveness in helping their kids fall asleep faster and stay asleep, particularly for those occasional restless nights. The natural ingredients and pediatrician recommendation give many a sense of peace of mind. Many note that their kids love the taste.

• See it on Amazon here

Natrol Kids Melatonin Gummies 1mg, Children’s Melatonin for…

Natrol offers another fantastic option for a safe melatonin for children with their Kids Melatonin Gummies. These pectin-based gummies are designed to be less sticky and easier to chew, making bedtime a more enjoyable experience for everyone. With a delicious raspberry flavor and clean ingredients, it’s a fuss-free way to help your child wind down.

• Key Features:

  • Gentle 1mg melatonin formulation per gummy.
  • 100% drug-free and non-habit forming.
  • Pectin-based, easy to chew, and less sticky.
  • Delicious raspberry flavor.
  • Made with non-GMO, vegetarian-friendly, gelatin-free ingredients.
  • Free from synthetic dyes, artificial flavors, or sweeteners.
  • Recommended for children ages four and up, one gummy 30 minutes before bed.

• Pros:

  • Excellent for children who dislike sticky gummies.
  • Great taste that kids often love.
  • Very clean ingredient list, reassuring for health-conscious parents.
  • Effective for helping kids fall asleep faster.

• Cons:

  • Only suitable for ages four and up.
  • Requires thorough chewing before swallowing.

• User Impressions: Reviewers consistently highlight the great taste and soft texture of Natrol gummies, making them a hit with picky eaters. Parents appreciate the clean label and report that the gummies are effective for occasional sleep issues, leading to calmer bedtimes.

• See it on Amazon here

PURE Zzzs Kidz, Kids Melatonin Gummy, Sleep Aid, Low…

From the trusted sleep experts at Vicks, PURE Zzzs Kidz offers a mindfully formulated option with a low dose of melatonin. Each gummy provides 0.5 mg, allowing for flexible dosing (1 mg per serving of two gummies). What sets these apart is the unique blend of complementary botanicals like lavender and chamomile, designed to gently support your child’s natural sleep cycle.

• Key Features:

  • Low amount of melatonin (0.5 mg per gummy, 1 mg per serving of two gummies).
  • 100% drug-free and non-habit forming.
  • Gluten-free, lactose-free, gelatin-free.
  • Contains colors from natural sources.
  • Uniquely formulated with a blend of lavender and chamomile.
  • Delicious berry flavor.
  • From the makers of the world’s #1 sleep aid brand.

• Pros:

  • Lower individual gummy dosage allows for precise adjustment.
  • Includes calming botanicals for added relaxation.
  • Trusted brand reputation.
  • Pleasant berry flavor.
  • Free from many common allergens.

• Cons:

  • Some children might require two gummies for desired effect, meaning fewer servings per bottle.
  • Botanicals may not be suitable for all children.

• User Impressions: Parents often note that PURE Zzzs Kidz gummies work gently and effectively, especially for those with mild sleep disturbances. The added botanicals are a plus for many, enhancing the calming effect. The berry flavor is generally well-received.

• See it on Amazon here

Zarbee’s Kids 1mg Melatonin Chewable Tablet, Drug-Free &…

If gummies aren’t your child’s preference, Zarbee’s also offers a Kids 1mg Melatonin Chewable Tablet. These natural grape-flavored tablets provide a different option for delivering that crucial 1 mg of melatonin. Like their gummies, these chewables are drug-free and non-habit forming, working harmoniously with your child’s body to promote peaceful sleep.

• Key Features:

  • Each chewable tablet contains 1 mg of clinically studied melatonin.
  • Natural grape flavor.
  • Drug-free, easy-to-chew, non-habit-forming.
  • Free of drugs, alcohol, artificial sweeteners, added flavors or dyes, or high fructose corn syrup.
  • Recommended for kids 3 years and older.

  • 1 Pediatrician Recommended Sleep Support Brand for Children.

• Pros:

  • Alternative format for children who prefer chewable tablets over gummies.
  • Natural grape flavor is often a hit with kids.
  • Clean ingredients from a pediatrician-approved brand.
  • Easy to administer and precise dosage.

• Cons:

  • Some children might find chewable tablets less appealing than gummies.
  • Texture might not be suitable for all palates.

• User Impressions: Parents appreciate the chewable format as a good alternative, particularly if their child has sensitivities to gummy textures. The grape flavor is a popular choice, and many find these tablets to be reliably effective for occasional sleeplessness.

• See it on Amazon here

OLLY Kids Sleep Gummy, 0.5mg Melatonin, L Theanine,…

OLLY is known for its fun and effective wellness gummies, and their Kids Sleep Gummy is no exception. Designed for occasional restless nights, this mild blend offers 0.5mg of melatonin per gummy, along with L-Theanine and a calming mix of botanicals like Chamomile, Passionflower, and Lemon Balm. It’s a delightful Razzzberry-flavored gummy designed to make bedtime a little sweeter.

• Key Features:

  • Mild blend of Melatonin (0.5mg per gummy).
  • Includes L-Theanine for calm and focus.
  • Contains a mix of traditionally used herbal helpers: Chamomile, Passionflower, and Lemon Balm Extracts.
  • Razzzberry flavor with other natural flavors.
  • No synthetic colors or flavors, gluten-free.
  • Drug-free and non-habit forming.
  • Recommended for ages 4 and up; start with 1 gummy, up to 2 as needed.

• Pros:

  • Lower melatonin dose allows for titration.
  • L-Theanine and botanicals provide a comprehensive calming effect.
  • Delicious and popular Razzzberry flavor.
  • Trusted OLLY brand quality.

• Cons:

  • Some children may need two gummies for full effect.
  • The combination of ingredients might not be ideal for every child.

• User Impressions: OLLY Kids Sleep Gummies often receive praise for their appealing taste and the gentle way they help children relax and fall asleep. Parents appreciate the added L-Theanine and herbal blend for a more holistic approach to bedtime support, noting a calm demeanor before sleep.

• See it on Amazon here

Natrol Kids Sleep+ Calm, Melatonin and L-Theanine,…

Natrol goes a step further with their Kids Sleep+ Calm gummies, combining 1mg of melatonin with L-Theanine for an extra layer of calming support. These strawberry-flavored pectin gummies are designed to be easy to chew and less sticky, making them a pleasant addition to the bedtime routine. It’s a great option when your child not only needs sleep but also a little help unwinding from a busy day.

• Key Features:

  • Combines Melatonin and L-Theanine for sleep and calming.
  • Strawberry-flavored pectin-based gummies.
  • Vegetarian, gelatin-free, and non-GMO.
  • Free from artificial flavors, sweeteners, and synthetic dyes.
  • Recommended for children ages 4 and up (one or two gummies 30 minutes before bedtime).
  • Child-resistant packaging.

• Pros:

  • L-Theanine helps promote calmness alongside melatonin for sleep.
  • Pectin-based for a non-sticky, easy-to-chew experience.
  • Clean ingredients with no artificial additives.
  • Delicious strawberry flavor.

• Cons:

  • Specific combination of ingredients might not be necessary for all children.
  • Requires thorough chewing.

• User Impressions: Parents who try Sleep+ Calm often report a noticeable difference in their child’s ability to relax before bed. The L-Theanine seems to be a key factor in reducing bedtime jitters, and the delicious strawberry flavor ensures kids willingly take them.

• See it on Amazon here

Zarbee’s Kids Sleep Supplement Liquid with 1mg Melatonin;…

For parents whose children prefer liquids or have difficulty with gummies and chewables, Zarbee’s offers a Kids Sleep Supplement Liquid. This natural berry-flavored liquid provides 1 mg of clinically studied melatonin per serving, making it super easy to administer. It’s a drug-free, non-habit forming solution that works with your child’s body to encourage peaceful slumber.

• Key Features:

  • Each serving contains 1 mg of clinically studied melatonin.
  • Natural berry flavor liquid.
  • Drug-free, non-habit forming.
  • Free of drugs, alcohol, artificial flavors, dyes, and gluten.
  • Recommended for kids 3 years+.

  • 1 Pediatrician Recommended Sleep Support Brand for Children.

• Pros:

  • Excellent for children who can’t or won’t take gummies or chewables.
  • Easy to measure and administer precise doses.
  • Natural berry flavor is generally well-accepted.
  • Fast-acting due to liquid form.
  • Trusted pediatrician-approved brand.

• Cons:

  • Some children might resist liquid supplements.
  • Needs to be measured carefully.

• User Impressions: Many parents rave about the convenience and effectiveness of the liquid form, especially for younger children or those with texture sensitivities. They find it helps their kids drift off to sleep quickly and wake up refreshed. The berry taste is often a hit, too!

• See it on Amazon here

Natrol Kids Melatonin 1 mg, Dietary Supplement for Restful…

Natrol’s standard Kids Melatonin gummies are a straightforward and effective option if you’re looking for pure melatonin without additional calming agents. These 1mg raspberry-flavored gummies are 100% drug-free, non-habit forming, and designed to help your child fall asleep faster. They’re also pectin-based, ensuring a soft, easy-to-chew experience that kids love.

• Key Features:

  • 1mg melatonin per gummy.
  • 100% drug-free, non-habit forming.
  • Vegetarian, gelatin-free, no synthetic dyes, artificial flavors, or sweeteners.
  • Delicious raspberry flavor with a soft, pectin-based texture.
  • Safe and effective for ages 4 and up.
  • Promotes sleep in as little as 15 minutes.

  • 1 Drug-Free Sleep Aid Brand in America.

• Pros:

  • Fast-acting, often works within 15 minutes.
  • Simple, effective melatonin-only formula.
  • Delicious taste and easy-to-chew texture.
  • Very clean label, great for ingredient-conscious parents.

• Cons:

  • May not provide additional calming benefits for highly anxious children.
  • Only suitable for ages 4 and up.

• User Impressions: This product is frequently praised for its rapid action and pleasant taste. Parents find it to be a reliable solution for getting their children to sleep quickly on nights they struggle, without any grogginess the next morning.

• See it on Amazon here

Carlyle Kids Melatonin 1mg | 120 Chewable Tablets | Fruit…

Carlyle offers a generous supply of Kids Melatonin in a chewable tablet format. Each tablet delivers 1mg of melatonin with a yummy fruit flavor, making it a great choice for supporting your child’s natural sleep routine. It’s a no-frills, effective option for parents seeking a straightforward children’s melatonin supplement from a brand committed to quality.

• Key Features:

  • 1 mg of Melatonin per chewable tablet.
  • Yummy fruit flavor.
  • Laboratory Tested, Trusted Ingredients, Superior Quality.
  • Naturally Free Of: Gluten, Wheat, Milk, Lactose, Soy & Non-GMO.
  • 120 chewable tablets per bottle, offering great value.

• Pros:

  • Great value with 120 tablets.
  • Chewable format is a good alternative to gummies.
  • Yummy fruit flavor that kids generally enjoy.
  • Free from many common allergens.

• Cons:

  • Might not be as widely known or reviewed as other brands.
  • Specific fruit flavor might not appeal to every child.

• User Impressions: Customers often highlight the excellent value for money with Carlyle’s larger bottle size. The chewable tablets are generally well-received for their taste and effectiveness, providing a simple yet reliable way to help kids achieve restful sleep.

• See it on Amazon here

Mommy’s Bliss Kids Sleep Liquid with Melatonin & Calming…

Mommy’s Bliss, founded by a pediatric nurse, understands the needs of parents and children. Their Kids Sleep Liquid combines 1mg of melatonin with a special Bedtime Bliss Blend of organic chamomile, lemon balm, and passion flower. This sugar-free, delicious grape-flavored liquid is designed to work with your child’s natural sleep process, promoting restful sleep without artificial ingredients.

• Key Features:

  • Sugar-free liquid formula.
  • Contains 1mg melatonin and calming herbs (organic chamomile, lemon balm, passion flower).
  • Delicious grape flavor, kid-approved.
  • Recommended for children 3 years and up.
  • Free of drugs, sugar, top 8 allergens, artificial colors, flavors, binders, and fillers.
  • Mom-designed for peace of mind.

• Pros:

  • Liquid form is easy to administer and potentially fast-acting.
  • Synergistic blend of melatonin and calming herbs for comprehensive sleep support.
  • Excellent for children with allergies or sensitivities due to its clean ingredient list.
  • Pleasant, sugar-free grape flavor.
  • Developed by a pediatric nurse.

• Cons:

  • Some children might prefer gummies over liquid supplements.
  • Requires careful measurement for accurate dosing.

• User Impressions: Parents frequently praise Mommy’s Bliss for its clean ingredients and effective yet gentle formula. The combination of melatonin and botanicals is a hit, with many reporting their children fall asleep peacefully and wake up refreshed. The grape flavor makes it an easy sell for kids.

• See it on Amazon here

Important Considerations Before Using Melatonin for Kids

While melatonin can be a lifesaver for occasional sleep issues, it’s super important to use it wisely. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Always Talk to Your Pediatrician First: This is non-negotiable! Before starting any supplement, including melatonin, always consult your child’s doctor. They can help determine if it’s appropriate for your child, rule out underlying medical conditions, and advise on the correct dosage.
• Melatonin Isn’t a Cure-All: It’s designed for occasional sleeplessness, not as a long-term solution for chronic sleep problems. If your child struggles with sleep regularly, there might be other issues at play that a doctor can help address.
• Start Low and Go Slow: If your pediatrician gives the green light, begin with the lowest effective dose. Many pediatricians recommend starting with 0.5 mg to 1 mg.
• Combine with Good Sleep Hygiene: Melatonin works best when paired with a consistent, calming bedtime routine. Think warm baths, quiet reading, dim lights, and avoiding screens before bed.
• Timing is Key: Give melatonin about 30-60 minutes before your desired bedtime.

FAQ: Your Questions About Melatonin for Kids Answered

Q1: Is melatonin safe for kids?

A1: Generally, when used short-term for occasional sleeplessness and under the guidance of a pediatrician, low doses of melatonin are considered safe for most children. However, it’s crucial to consult your child’s doctor before starting any supplement to ensure it’s appropriate for their specific needs.

Q2: What’s the right dosage of melatonin for children?

A2: There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, as dosage depends on age, weight, and the child’s specific sleep issue. Many pediatricians recommend starting with a low dose, such as 0.5 mg or 1 mg, about 30-60 minutes before bedtime. Always follow your pediatrician’s advice.

Q3: How long does it take for melatonin to work for kids?

A3: Melatonin usually starts to work within 30 to 60 minutes after being taken. It’s best to administer it as part of the winding-down phase of your child’s bedtime routine.

Q4: Are there any side effects of melatonin for kids?

A4: While generally well-tolerated, some children may experience mild side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, headache, or nausea the next day. Rarer side effects can include agitation or vivid dreams. If you notice any concerning side effects, stop use and contact your pediatrician.

Q5: When should I give my child melatonin?

A5: Melatonin should be given about 30 to 60 minutes before your child’s intended bedtime. It works best when given consistently at the same time each night, in conjunction with a relaxing bedtime routine.

Q6: Can my child become dependent on melatonin?

A6: Melatonin is not considered habit-forming or addictive in the same way as prescription sleep medications. However, it’s best used for occasional sleep issues rather than long-term, daily use. Over-reliance can prevent your child from learning natural sleep cues. Always aim to use it for the shortest duration necessary.

Q7: What are some natural ways to help my child sleep better?

A7: Before reaching for supplements, focus on good sleep hygiene:
* Consistent Bedtime Routine: Stick to the same bedtime and wake-up time, even on weekends.
* Calming Rituals: A warm bath, reading a book, or quiet playtime before bed.
* Comfortable Sleep Environment: Dark, quiet, and cool room.
* Limit Screen Time: Avoid screens (TV, tablets, phones) at least an hour before bed.
* Balanced Diet & Exercise: Ensure your child gets plenty of physical activity during the day and avoids sugary snacks close to bedtime.

Sweet Dreams Ahead!

Finding the best melatonin for kids can make a huge difference in bringing peace back to your bedtime routine. Whether you opt for a delicious gummy, a convenient chewable, or a fast-acting liquid, there are fantastic options out there to help your child achieve the restful sleep they need. Remember, always prioritize that chat with your pediatrician, combine supplements with good sleep habits, and soon you’ll both be enjoying sweet dreams!