How Sleep Affects Development in Children | The Science Behind Restful Nights
How Sleep Affects Development in Children | The Science Behind Restful Nights How Sleep Affects Development in Children Sleep is a cornerstone of healthy development in children, influencing everything from brain function to emotional resilience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the science behind sleep’s role in growth, learning, and behavior—and how bedtime stories can be a powerful tool to encourage better rest. The Science of Sleep and Child Development During sleep, children’s bodies and brains undergo critical processes that support physical growth, memory consolidation, and emotional regulation. Let’s break down the key ways sleep fuels development. 1. Physical Growth and Restoration Growth hormone is primarily secreted during deep sleep, making adequate rest essential for: Bone and muscle development Immune system function Cell repa...