We say sleep is important, but what exactly are the consequences of a lack of it in children? A recent study tried to show them.
It can sometimes be worrying, but fever in children does not necessarily require taking medication. On the other hand, if babies born in 2022 have a good life expectancy ahead of them, we must not neglect an essential element for their development and good health: sleep.
A study by New Zealand researchers from the University of Otago found that reduced sleep can have serious consequences for the youngest. In general, three-year-olds sleep 13 hours, six-year-olds 12 hours, and thirteen-year-olds 9 hours. Review JAMA Network published the new study carried out on children aged eight to twelve. This “secondary” analysis of the randomized crossover trial called “DREAM” (Daily Rest, Eating, Activity Monitoring) brought together a hundred healthy children to observe the effect of sleep deprivation on their health-related quality of life.
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The effects of lack of sleep in children
For a week, the usual bedtimes were delayed by one hour, and brought forward by one hour, causing them to sleep an average of 39 minutes less than usual. A “significant” decrease in sleep disturbances was observedbut also a “great alteration” of certain skills.
Children who slept about 30 minutes less showed decline in “physical and general well-being” as well as an ability “to manage in school”. Several aspects of their quality of life may have been affected by the accumulated sleep debt.
The researchers therefore published a press release with their conclusions on the importance of “ensure children get enough good quality sleep”. It remains for parents to find good ways for their children to sleep.