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Sleepwalking in Children: New Study Reveals 15% of Kids Sleepwalk

Apr 18, 2024

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Summary

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In an exciting new study from Cleveland Clinic, researchers discovered that a whopping 15% of kids between 4 and 8 years old sleepwalk! Sleepwalking is when kids get out of bed and walk around while they’re still mostly asleep, and this research shows that it’s more common than we thought. The great news is that it doesn’t cause any big problems for them as they grow up.

Frequently Asked Question

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What age group is most likely to experience sleepwalking?

Sleepwalking is most common in kids between the ages of four and eight.

Can waking up a sleepwalking child be harmful?

Sudden waking can be distressing for a sleepwalking child; it’s safer to gently guide them back to bed.

Is sleepwalking in kids linked to underlying health conditions?

Most often, it’s not linked to underlying health issues and more common in deep sleep stages.

Does every child who sleepwalks need medical attention?

Not always, but if sleepwalking results in dangerous situations or disrupts regular sleep, it’s best to consult a professional.

Can sleepwalking in kids be prevented?

Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and good sleep hygiene can help reduce episodes of sleepwalking.

Scientific Definition

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Sleepwalking, formally known as somnambulism, is a type of parasomnia that involves complex behaviors like walking, performed during the partial arousal from sleep. These episodes, more prevalent in children aged four to eight, tend not to carry long-term effects; most children cease sleepwalking by adolescence.

 

Resources to Dig Deeper:

1. Sleep Foundation’s Guide on Sleepwalking

2. Mayo Clinic on Sleepwalking: Symptoms and causes

3. Healthline’s Understanding Sleepwalking

Video Explanation

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A Real World Example of Sleepwalking in Kids

Let’s share a real-life example of ‘sleepwalking in kids’ with a story about a kid named Charlie. The story shows how parents can manage instances of their children sleepwalking.

  • Charlie, like most other kids, always had an adventurous spirit despite his five years of age. One night, in the middle of his sleep, he began sleepwalking.
  • His parents found him in the kitchen, trying to pour himself cereal, all while fast asleep. They realized he was sleepwalking, thanks to his glossed-over, unfocused eyes.
  • Before panicking, they remembered reading that it’s unsafe to wake a sleepwalker suddenly. Instead, they calmly guided him back to bed to ensure his safety.

The table below offers a helpful overview of what to do and avoid in Charlie’s scenario, which can be beneficial for parents dealing with sleepwalking:

Do’s Don’ts
Gently guide sleepwalking child back to bed Avoid waking the child suddenly

How Sleepwalking in Kids Works

In the world of sleep disorders, sleepwalking in kids isn’t just a thing of storybooks. Instead, it’s a reality many parents face. Now let’s delve into how it works and some real-life examples:

  • A kid’s brain shifts between deep and light sleep. During this shift, a kid might enter a mixed state of being awake and asleep, sparking sleepwalking.
  • Examples include a child sleeping yet stumbling to the fridge, like our friend Charlie, or a kid “daydreaming,” but late at night.

In conclusion, sleepwalking takes the saying walking in one’s sleep to a literal level. The good news is that it’s usually a phase, and with understanding, parents can navigate this temporary adventure.

About the Author

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author

Emily

Emily

Emily is a seasoned blog writer for Goally, leveraging her extensive background in child psychology and special education to provide valuable insights and resources for parents. Her commitment to understanding and addressing the unique needs of these children, combined with her expertise in educational strategies, makes her a credible and empathetic voice for families.