Children & Sleep

A Parent's Achilles Heel

Sleep is a leading area of concern among parents of infants and young children. New parents soon discover that infant sleep differs significantly from that of adults. That can affect the entire family, with particular impact on parent fatigue and well-being. Good sleep is important to babies and young children. It supports both physical and mental development. As children reach school age, sleep becomes an essential element to successful school performance. The ability to pay attention is directly related to sleep. Adequate sleep is important for everyone. Poor sleep is associated with chronic health conditions, including obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Resources for Children & Sleep

UW Resources

Center for Research on the Management of Sleep Disturbances (CRMSD): More than 70 million people in the U.S. have a sleep disturbance. The goal of the CRMSD is to improve health, well-being and quality of life through the enhancement of sleep quality across the lifespan.

External Resources

National Sleep Foundation (Children and Sleep): The National Sleep Foundation’s “Children and Sleep” section offers parents and educators helpful sleep information, as well as tips for helping children get to sleep.

Washington State Department of Early Learning (DEL): The DEL offers information and resources to parents and teachers that help nurture safe and healthy early learning experiences for all Washington state children.