Can Sleep Boost Intelligence? – Being Parents
The effects of restful sleep can be reflected in the intellectual aspect of children and adults.
Going to bed early or going to bed late can affect the quality, quantity and intensity of sleep. Experts have determined that this can vary between adults and children: It is believed that adults who go to bed late are smarter, but the opposite is true with children.
In addition to bedtime, regularity is also important. Falling asleep early every day and at the same time can promote cognitive development in babies. According to studies, it could also improve the emotional and physical aspect of children.
We have always heard that children grow up while they sleep. Well, this growth is not symbolic. For example, establishing a daily routine promotes discipline and the development of good habits. Likewise, it allows you to focus your energy at rest and improve other processes.
Go to bed an hour earlier
According to a study conducted by the American University of Auburn, children should regularly go to sleep at least an hour earlier than usual. The study mentions that this should also be done if the schedule implies that there is still daylight. That being said, consistency is still the main thing, so don’t wait until it gets dark if it’s already bedtime.
The more irregular children’s sleep schedules, the more likely it is to trouble them. The damage associated with this habit can be seen at the intellectual, emotional and physical stage. The study indicates that the most favorable time to go to bed for children is between 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
To obtain these results, the researchers analyzed the academic performance of children aged 7 to 11. In the group of children who went to bed an hour earlier than normal, the results were clear: these children had better emotional balance and greater mental alertness during school hours.
The study also found that babies under 18 months of age who fell asleep an hour earlier were able to increase their development. This has been demonstrated in its motor function and also in the acquisition of language, as well as in relation to relationships with people.
How does intelligence benefit from a good sleep?
The benefits of rest and sleep are countless for children and adults. For the little ones, it is better that they fall asleep earlier. During sleep, they manage to develop and exercise memory; the more time they have for rest, the better.
For adults, sleep functions as a disconnection process in which memory is not active. On the other hand, sleep activates the fundamental process for the development of memory. Memory is a vital part of children’s intellectual growth which benefits most from sleep.
The benefits of sleep are undeniable. Therefore, it is essential that children can enjoy it in a constant, prolonged and profound way. Once it becomes a habit, it will be easier for them to go to sleep. And before adulthood, it’s up to parents to provide the best for their children.
Perhaps from now on, many mothers will consider improving certain habits in their children. However, it is always advisable to consult the pediatrician to determine what the child’s real needs are.
The main thing is to adapt to the needs of each individual. However, it is important that each change is made gradually, without pressure and with love. Healthy habits are sometimes the most difficult to acquire, but it is always important to forge them from childhood.
