Frequently Asked Questions
What do you hope to learn from this study?
We know that factors such as sleep environment, parent-child interactions, and children's health status and psychosocial functioning influence when, how long, and how well children sleep. Very little is known, however, about the biological sleep capabilities of young children. In this study, we measure two aspects of sleep biology - sleep pressure across the day and the timing of daily rhythms. This is the first study to ever comprehensively look at the sleep biology of young children.
Although parents know that children are more "cranky" when they don't get enough sleep, this relationship has not been adequately studied in young children. Thus, we are also studying the effects of taking away an afternoon nap on children's ability to express and regulate their emotions.
Who will benefit form the results of this study?
Studying sleep biology and the effects of missing an afternoon nap in healthy children is very important and will help us understand how sleep problems develop and persist across early development. The results of the study will be valuable for anyone interested in the well-being of young children - such as parents, physicians, educators, psychologists, and policy makers.
How will you keep my child awake throughout his/her daytime nap period?
We help your child stay awake by interacting with him/her. We use a variety of playful activities, such as games, singing songs, and reading, to keep your child active.
How much strain will be placed on my child because he/she is being kept awake?
All children miss their afternoon nap from time to time, and this naturally makes them a little "cranky". This is what we want to study. Our goal is to look at differences in the ways children express and regulate their emotions on a day when they have a nap and on a day when they miss their nap. We will continually monitor your child (with your help) to ensure that they are not "pushed" beyond their comfort level.
Will the sensors used to measure sleep, breathing, and heart rate harm my child?
No. The sensors are safe and do not cause any harm. We attach sensors to the body with a small sticker that is lubricated with a hypoallergenic gel. We attach sensors to the head with a similar type of water soluble paste. After the electrodes are removed, the residue washes right off with soap and water.
How long is the study?
On average, the study lasts 16 days. This time period may be a little longer, depending on your family's schedule.