Sleep in the Developing Brain

This article describes the variability of sleep needs throughout infancy and adolescence and the impact that primary or secondary changes in sleep architecture and sleep quality can have on children. It also reviews the changes in sleep as a child develops as well as the bidirectional relationship of sleep and pediatric neurodevelopmental disorders, epilepsy, and psychosocial health.

Pediatric sleep has historically been understudied. Advances have made the quantitative study of pediatric sleep more feasible, although significant gaps remain. As early as prenatal life, sleep can affect a child's development, psychological health, and long-term sleep health. Genetic influences on circadian rhythm and brain development place many children at greater risk of sleep disorders and may one day be used to proactively screen for sleep disorders in children.

Knowledge of common pediatric sleep disorders and the influence of sleep health on the impact of neurologic conditions is essential. Every child seen in a neurology clinic should be screened for sleep disorders, especially children with neurodevelopmental differences, epilepsy, or a history of structural brain abnormalities.