Review on Physiology of Sleep and Factors Affecting Good Sleep Hygiene in Children

Abstract

Sleep is a dynamic process in the human body that plays an important influence on various functions. Recent researches are exploring the field of sleep to understand the development, the process of the sleep/wake cycle, in an attempt to understand sleep-related disorders. In addition to understanding the sciences behind sleep disorders, understanding how sleep is integral to development and functioning helps in optimizing sleep to its fullest to aid in better functional outcomes. This is of particular importance in children due to their inability to communicate the decline in their functioning capacity and attribute it to their disturbed sleep patterns like adults. Significant changes have been noted between various countries and hence the influence of various societal and cultural norms were identified. The impact of poor sleep on physical functioning, mental and psychosocial health is very well emphasized. Since children are more vulnerable to electronic devices and other habits that disrupt the good quality of sleep, it becomes the responsibility of the parents and pediatricians to understand the benefits of regular sleep habits and sleep hygiene.