Early Sleep Habits Could Carry Over Into Later Life

Posted On: 03-17-2017

A new study suggests preschoolers who aren't getting enough sleep could develop sleep-related issues later in life. Involving a tracking of sleep patterns and daily functioning from birth through adolescent years, a recent long-term study noted a decrease in emotional and mental functioning in kids not getting sufficient sleep. The results stress the importance of developing healthy sleep patterns early in life.

Difficulty Learning

The extensive sleep study followed more than a thousand children from birth through their early adolescent years. When the kids reached school age, input was collected from both parents and teachers in an attempt to find a link between sleep patterns and how children learn when awake. Those who weren't getting enough sleep exhibited a poor ability to pay attention, which can make it difficult to process new information.

Increased Behavioral Issues

Not getting sleep may also contribute to behavioral problems in children. Insufficient sleep affects parts of the brain that handle functioning and reasoning (prefrontal cortex), emotions (amygdala), and impulse control (striatum). If these areas aren't functioning properly, especially in developing brains, children may be inattentive and more prone to emotional outbursts at home and while at school.

Minimizing Long-Term Health Risks

Results from the study suggest sleep-related issues in school-age children started with sleep habits established earlier in life. If poor sleeping patterns learned during childhood continue into adult years, it can have an impact on overall health and well-being. Poor sleep may also contribute to weight issues and increase the risk of developing conditions like diabetes and chronic back pain.

Establishing Healthy Sleep Patterns

Parents can encourage their kids to get enough rest by setting times to go to bed and get up that are in line with their body's natural sleep rhythm. Creating a comfortable bedroom without distractions from electronics, using heavier curtains that block light at night, and age-appropriate daytime napping can also help achieve this goal. Regular, productive sleep helps children:

Maintain optimal alertness
Grow and develop mentally and physically
Reduce fatigue and stress
Stabilize emotions

Because of the way the brain develops, children need more sleep than older kids and adults. The standard recommendation is about 11 hours of rest per night for kids under five. By the time children reach their teen years, 7-8 hours of productive sleep is usually sufficient.

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