Children’s sleep is crucial for their development, and new research is uncovering a potential genetic link to their sleeping patterns. If parents face chronic sleep challenges, it’s even more important to focus on their children’s sleep habits.
A study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry highlights a genetic tendency towards insomnia-like sleep problems in children. This early predisposition suggests that some kids might be more prone to sleep issues that could persist or become more evident as they grow.
Genetics and Sleep: A Deeper Look
The study involved over 2,000 European children, with insights from both mothers and sleep-tracking devices. While mothers often reported more sleep difficulties in their children than what the trackers indicated, it raises questions about perception versus actual sleep quality and quantity.
Dr. Eus van Someren and Dr. Amita Sehgal, experts in sleep research, emphasize that while genetics are a factor, cultivating healthy sleep habits remains key.
