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Measuring Neural Mechanisms Underlying Sleep-Dependent Memory Consolidation During Naps in Early Childhood
08:20

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Published on: October 2, 2019

Influence of ACEs on Sleep Health in Early Childhood as Mediated by Family Routines

Ann H Johnson1, Sara L Davis2, David Phillipi3

  • 1Harris College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Texas Christian University, 2800 W Bowie St., Fort Worth, TX 76109, USA.

Children (Basel, Switzerland)
|July 28, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) can negatively impact preschooler sleep, but family interactions like reading and meals can help improve sleep health. Consistent family routines are key for better sleep outcomes in young children.

Area of Science:

  • Child Development
  • Sleep Science
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Sleep health is crucial for well-being across the lifespan.
  • Insufficient sleep is common in children, influenced by socioecological factors and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate how ACEs affect sleep health in preschool children.
  • To examine the mediating roles of family interaction habits and outdoor play in the ACEs-sleep health relationship.

Main Methods:

  • Secondary analysis of the 2023 National Survey of Children's Health.
  • Dataset filtered for children aged 3-5 years.
  • Structural equation modeling used to analyze relationships.

Main Results:

  • 66% of parents reported adequate sleep; 89% reported consistent bedtimes.
  • 71% reported no ACEs; most children had daily outdoor play.
  • Family interactions (reading, meals) mediated the negative effects of ACEs on consistent bedtime and adequate sleep duration.

Conclusions:

  • Family interaction can positively influence sleep health in young children, even with ACEs.
  • Reading aloud, singing, storytelling, and family meals are protective factors for child sleep.
  • Early childhood is a critical period where family routines support sleep health despite adversity.
Abstract

Keywords:
ACEsbedtime routinefamily interactionoutdoor playpediatric sleep health

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