Sleeping Part 1: Normal Physiology and Common Problems course for Dietitians

This session is designed to help you manage the common sleep problems that arise in young children. It covers the normal pattern of sleep and variation in children aged between 0 and 5 years, and also discusses the range of sleep problems that can occur along with a description of their impact on the family.

Learning objectives

By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Describe normal sleep and sleep behaviour in young children (0-5 years)
• Outline the physiological basis for sleep behaviour
• Recognise the factors that impair or promote the development of sleep routines in children
• Provide guidance and support for parents of children with common sleeping problems

The importance of good sleep patterns has both an anecdotal and a sound scientific background to support the relationship between sleep and learning and behaviour. Strong associations have been identified with mood, attention and concentration in adults and children.