Sleep characteristics, sleep evaluation, and initial management of sleep problems in children and adolescents

Abstract

Sleep patterns, sleep disorders, and sleep management for children and adolescents are obviously different from adult population. These differences are also observed among each stage of childhood. Pediatricians should know the sleep characteristics in children and able to suggest parents on the initial management of sleep problems. The screening with “BEARS” which each alphabet represents sleep behaviors and common sleep problems. B for Bedtime problems, E for Excessive daytime sleepiness, A for Awakening during the night, R for Regularity for bedtime and waketime as well as sleep duration, and S = Sleep-disordered breathing including snoring and sleep apnea. For initial management of sleep problems, the principle of sleep hygiene for children and adolescents are important. It consists of regular daytime activities, regular bedtime and waketime, consistent bedtime routine, using bed and bedroom for sleep only, and appropriate bedroom environment for sleeping.