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[Sleep behavior in the first 3 years of life]
J M Fegert1, J Schulz, R Bergmann
1Abteilung für Psychiatrie, Medizinische Fakultät, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin.
Insights
Sleep problems are common in toddlers. This German study found that sleep issues persist in one to three-year-olds, impacting family well-being.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Sleep Medicine
- Developmental Psychology
- Epidemiology
Context:
- Infant and toddler sleep problems are prevalent, necessitating further research into their persistence and impact.
- A German multicenter epidemiological study was conducted on a birth cohort of 1314 children.
- Longitudinal data collection occurred from 4 weeks to 3 years of age, utilizing structured interviews and questionnaires.
Purpose:
- To determine the prevalence and persistence of sleep problems in German children aged one to three years.
- To analyze correlations between breastfeeding, sleep location, and sleep issues.
- To examine the effects of sleep problems on overall family well-being.
Summary:
- Sleep problems are highly common in infants and toddlers.
- This study reports on the prevalence and persistence of sleep disturbances in 1-3 year old children in Germany.
- Correlations between breastfeeding, sleep environment, and sleep problems were analyzed, alongside impacts on family well-being.
Impact:
- Provides crucial data on the long-term prevalence of pediatric sleep problems in Germany.
- Informs clinical practice and parental guidance regarding infant and toddler sleep.
- Highlights the significant influence of sleep disturbances on family functioning and well-being.
Abstract:
A review of the literature on sleeping "disorders" in infants and toddlers shows that sleep problems are very common. We report the results of a German multicenter epidemiological study on a birth cohort (N = 1314). The children had medical examinations at 4 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, 18 months, 2 years and 3 years. Most of the information on the sleeping behavior was gathered by structured interview and questionnaires. This paper gives information on the prevalence and the persistence of sleep problems in one to three year old children in Germany. Statistical analysis of correlations between breastfeeding and sleep and the place of sleep are reported. The consequences of sleep problems on the family overall well-being are also examined.