Sleep disorders in children starting school are associated with impaired performance and behavioural difficulties. This is not at all unusual and a recent study by Lehmkul G Fricke-Okermann L, Wiater A and Mitchke decided to look at the causes and effects of sleep disorders in this group. It is already recognised that these disorders manifest themselves highly variably among children of any given age, and even in an individual affected child, they need an appropriate diagnostic evaluation so that the many environmental and background factors that may be relevant to the further course of the problem can be assessed.
In order to look more closely at this extensive data was obtained on approximately 1400 children who were tested before beginning school in 2005. This was accomplished using a special sleep questionnaire and another screening instrument that is used to assess behavioral strengths and difficulties (the SDQ, Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire).
Five percent of the children were found to have difficulty falling asleep, difficulty staying asleep, or nocturnal awakening. Less frequent problems included parasomnias such as pavor nocturnus (0.5%), sleepwalking (0.1%), and frequent nightmares (1.7%).
In order to look more closely at this extensive data was obtained on approximately 1400 children who were tested before beginning school in 2005. This was accomplished using a special sleep questionnaire and another screening instrument that is used to assess behavioral strengths and difficulties (the SDQ, Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire).
Five percent of the children were found to have difficulty falling asleep, difficulty staying asleep, or nocturnal awakening. Less frequent problems included parasomnias such as pavor nocturnus (0.5%), sleepwalking (0.1%), and frequent nightmares (1.7%).
This study showed that sleep disorders increase the risk of daytime fatigue and of psychological problems in general, including both hyperactivity and excessive emotional stress.
These results imply that sleep problems and emotional disturbances are intimately connected and underscore the importance of diagnosing sleep problems in young children.
If you are aware that your child is having sleep difficulties contact Dream-Angus.com for support and advice.
Posts
