Importance of children’s sleep habits

Sleep is a vital part of mental and physical health, especially important for kids and teens. It plays a role for growth and development.

During sleep, the body is at work supporting healthy brain function and keeping up physical health. But getting those Zs doesn’t always come easy.

Around 35% of parents reported to the CDC that their child sleeps less than what’s recommended for their age.

“Sleep disturbances are really common in kids,” Doctor Scott Hadland with Mass General said.

Hadland says sleep sets the stage for the kind of day a child will have, affecting school performance and how they engage with others.

Those who don’t get enough sleep are at an increased risk for injuries, obesity, Type 2 diabetes, poor mental health, attention and behavior problems, and poor cognitive development.

“The key here is to understand when there’s an issue,” Hadland said.

Hadland says there are three reasons parents should seek care for a child’s sleep habits.

First, if sleep disturbances are persistent, happening multiple times a week for a long period of time. Second, if the sleep issues are leading to daytime problems.

Finally, if you suspect a medical problem, for example, heavy snoring or gasping could be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea.

“I think the other thing I would say is that if a child does wake up in the middle of the night with some kind of sleep disturbance, it’s really important for parents to respond calmly because that will help their child fall back asleep more quickly,” Hadland said.