n general, says Dr. Leung, prescription sleep aids are not approved in young children and should only be administered if prescribed by their medical doctor for an established sleep disorder. There may be something to help minimize or prevent jet lag, however: if your child is six or older, talk to your pediatrician to see if diphenhydramine is a viable option. Dr. Leung notes that melatonin, an endogenous hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle, can also help shift sleep cycles if taken as an over-the-counter supplement (Talk to your pediatrician about the correct dosage