There are surely moments when parents adore gazing at their child’s serene face while they sleep peacefully. The time when a child is in a deep slumber is precious, as life’s worries fade away, leaving only sweetness and purity on the little one’s face.
The beautiful dreams that the child is experiencing create a warm and familiar space, bringing a sense of happiness and peace to the parents.
But what parents may not know is that there are three behaviors that their children exhibit during sleep that could indicate a higher IQ.
3 Sleep Behaviors That May Suggest a Higher IQ
Sleep Talking
According to a study published in Nature Communications, sleep talking in children can be a sign that their brains are “sorting through information.” Psychologists have pointed out that throughout the day, children go through various experiences and absorb new information. Sleep talking reflects the brain’s active “digestion” of these experiences and knowledge during the night.
If you notice your child occasionally talking in their sleep, it suggests that their brain is actively processing the day’s experiences.
Sometimes parents may worry about their child not sleeping soundly. However, this is not something to be overly concerned about. A study from Stanford University found that during deep sleep, the brain clears out waste that has accumulated during the day. This not only consolidates memory but also promotes the formation of neural connections.
Children who tend to sleep talk are often signs of very deep sleep, while the brain gradually eliminates waste. Moreover, children who like to sleep talk often have dynamic intellects and excellent learning abilities.
However, if a child consistently sleep talks and it is accompanied by crying or screaming, it may indicate that they are facing significant psychological pressure during the day and need more attention and support.
Changing Sleep Positions
It is common for children to toss and turn, sometimes rolling over or kicking off the covers. In fact, this is a sign of healthy brain development, indicating their ability to react to external stimuli and the brain’s self-regulation.
For instance, when a child kicks off the covers due to feeling warm, it shows their sensitivity to temperature. Or, when they roll around in their sleep, it is because their brain is adjusting their body to find the most comfortable sleeping position.
Research has also shown that children’s activities during sleep contribute to their brain and body development. Moderate changes in sleeping positions help children sleep more deeply, and deep sleep is crucial for brain recovery and development.
Smiling During Sleep
When a child smiles in their sleep, it is a true sign that their brain is processing positive information.
Psychologists believe that in infancy, the brain develops rapidly and is highly sensitive to environmental experiences. If, throughout the day, a child has had joyful moments, these memories will resurface as they fall asleep, creating dreams that lead to those smiles. Smiling in dreams reflects inner happiness and satisfaction.
Additionally, smiling in dreams not only expresses positive emotions but also helps relieve stress, maintains a cheerful mood, and fosters optimism in children. Moreover, smiling stimulates the production of neurotransmitters in the brain, which benefits brain development and cognitive functions.
How to Improve Sleep Quality for Young Children?
Several factors can influence the sleep quality of children, especially when they are in a deep sleep state. So, how can we improve their sleep to support brain development?
Here are some valuable suggestions from experts for parents to consider:
Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule
A regular sleep schedule plays a crucial role in enhancing sleep quality. Aim for consistent bedtimes and wake-up times every day to establish a natural body clock and significantly improve sleep.
Create an Ideal Sleep Environment
Use light-blocking curtains to create the perfect setting for sleep. These curtains not only block out bright light from the outside but also provide a comfortable ambiance in the child’s bedroom.
With proper light control, children will find it easier to fall asleep and enjoy a deeper sl. Additionally, a night light emitting a soft, warm glow creates a cozy atmosphere without being too bright or disruptive to their sleep.
Avoid Intense Stimulation Before Bedtime
About 1 to 2 hours before bedtime, minimize excessive teasing or roughhousing, reduce intense physical activity, and keep them away from electronic devices. This prevents overstimulation and ensures a peaceful transition to sleep.
A helpful tip for parents is to read gentle bedtime stories to relax and prepare their children for sleep.
Provide Nutritious Meals
Avoid feeding your child too close to bedtime, and be mindful of portion sizes at dinner to prevent digestive issues.
Engage in Moderate Daily Exercise
Light to moderate daily physical activities during the day will help children sleep more soundly at night. Take them outdoors for a run or engage in simple exercises together.
Pay Attention to Their Emotions
Refrain from scolding or raising your voice at your child before bedtime. Instead, care for and listen to their emotions daily, addressing any concerns promptly so that negative feelings don’t carry over into the night.
By being attentive to your child’s behaviors and implementing these strategies, you will support their brain development and overall well-being.