Why Are Tics Worse at Night?

6 min read

If you've noticed your child's tics seem to intensify as bedtime approaches, you're not imagining things. Many parents report that tics get worse at night, and there are real reasons behind this pattern.

The Science Behind Nighttime Tic Increases

Fatigue and the Brain

Throughout the day, your child's brain works hard to manage tics. By evening, that mental energy runs low. Think of it like a phone battery—the ability to suppress or manage tics simply drains as the day goes on.

The Relaxation Paradox

Here's something that surprises many parents: tics often increase when kids feel safe and relaxed. School might show fewer tics because your child is working hard to hold them in. Once home in a comfortable environment, that suppression releases. This is actually a sign that your home feels like a safe space.

Transition Times Are Tough

The shift from daytime activities to nighttime routines creates stress for many children. Evening routines involve many small transitions: dinner to homework, homework to bath, bath to bed. Each shift can create a small spike.

What You Can Do About Evening Tics

Create a Calm Transition Period

Build in a 30-45 minute buffer of calm, low-stimulation time before bedtime. Reading together, gentle stretching, or quiet conversation can help. Avoid screens during this period.

Establish Consistent Routines

Predictability helps anxious brains relax. When your child knows exactly what to expect each evening, their nervous system can settle more easily.

Don't Draw Attention to the Tics

When tics spike, resist the urge to comment. Pointing them out only adds stress, which typically makes things worse. If your child seems distressed, acknowledge their feelings without focusing on the tics: "It sounds like you're having a tough evening."

Track Patterns to Find Triggers

Every child is different. Keeping a simple log of evening tic patterns can help you identify specific triggers unique to your child—what they ate, sleep from the night before, activities that day.

Sleep Hygiene Basics

• Keep the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet
• Maintain consistent sleep and wake times, even on weekends
• Limit caffeine, especially after noon
• Get physical activity during the day, but not too close to bedtime
• Consider a weighted blanket if your child finds pressure soothing

The Bigger Picture

Some evening increase is normal and expected. Focus on what you can control: creating a calm environment, maintaining consistent routines, and not adding stress by overreacting. Many parents find that as they gather more data about their child's patterns, they feel more empowered and less helpless.