A study from Stanford University in the US reveals that sleep is a golden time for the body to recover, an essential phase for the brain to synthesize information and enhance neural connections.
If your child exhibits any of the following behaviors during sleep, it could indicate a high IQ. Observe if your child displays any of these traits.
Rolling over/kicking during sleep: A sign of positive neural development
Many parents notice that their children tend to roll over or gently kick their limbs during sleep, assuming that their sleep quality is poor.
In reality, this phenomenon may reflect the rapid development of their brains and nervous systems.
These movements are closely associated with the neurological function of the brain. After a day of information intake and processing, the brain “practices” through neural reflexes during sleep, manifesting as unconscious rolling or twitching.
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This movement not only promotes blood circulation, creating better conditions for physical development, but also indicates stronger neural responses and information integration capabilities. Notably, children who exhibit such behavior before the age of three often have an advantage in logical thinking and motor coordination.
Expert advice: There is no need to force children to change their sleeping positions. Just ensure a safe sleeping environment (e.g., adding bed rails) and avoid wrapping them too tightly in blankets, restricting limb movement.
Falling asleep instantly: A sign of efficient self-regulation
Some children can fall asleep as soon as their heads touch the pillow. This ability to fall asleep within a few seconds is not only fortunate but also a potential indicator of higher intelligence.
Research from Harvard University found that those who fall asleep quickly exhibit higher activity in the frontal cortex, responsible for planning and decision-making, and swiftly transition from wakefulness to sleep, suggesting a more mature self-regulation mechanism.
Children who fall asleep quickly tend to have stable emotions and better stress resilience. They focus effectively during the day and, through deep sleep at night, accelerate the circulation of cerebrospinal fluid, removing metabolic waste from the brain and storing energy for the next day’s cognitive tasks.
Expert advice: Maintain a fixed schedule (consistent bedtime routine), avoid overstimulation before sleep (such as electronic device usage), and incorporate soft music and bedtime stories to help children consolidate this advantage.
Children kicking and rolling over during sleep.
Smiling/talking during sleep: Dual development of emotions and cognition
Parents need not worry if their children smile or mutter in their sleep, as it could signify positive brain development.
Psychologists believe that dream behavior reflects children’s cognitive development. Smiling often results from reliving pleasant memories, while muttering is the brain’s way of organizing and reinforcing information received during the day.
Such children usually have vivid imaginations and emotional intelligence. Studies show that children who frequently have positive dreams score higher on language expression, empathy, and creative thinking tests.
Expert advice: Provide more positive stimulation during the day (such as outdoor exploration and enjoyable interactions with parents) and avoid criticism or threats before bedtime.
Child smiling and talking in their sleep.
How to create a “high-IQ” sleeping environment for children?
Manage the body clock: Maintain a fixed wake-up and bedtime schedule, with a maximum deviation of 30 minutes, including on weekends.
Optimize the environment: Control the bedroom temperature between 20-24°C (68-75°F), humidity at 40%-60%, use curtains to block sunlight, and opt for soft bedding for added comfort.
Diet and exercise: Avoid overeating at dinner, incorporate tryptophan-rich foods (like milk) into the diet, and ensure one hour of daily outdoor activity.
Each child has unique sleeping habits, and parents need not deliberately pursue a “perfect” answer. If your child exhibits any of the above characteristics, it indicates their physical and mental development is on the right track. Consistency and scientifically guided routines can foster brain development, even if it’s not apparent now.
Quality sleep is always the foundation of intellectual growth, and love and companionship are the “smart pills” children need most.
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