Researchers in the United States found that children 6 months old to almost 5 years old that showed sleep-disordered breathing (snoring, and sleep apnea, for example) or behavioral sleep problems (waking up during the night, or having difficulty sleeping) were more likely to need special education at age 8. By surveying parents in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children, they collected data on over 11,000 children’s sleep habits.
It is unclear as to whether or not sleep-disordered breathing, or behavioral sleep problems are the culprit behind special education needs later in life. However, the data is still fascinating. It has long since been proven that sleep directly impacts cognitive ability, emotion, and memory. This study reinforces the need for parents to observe their child’s sleep early on in their lives.
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