Study on How Sleep and Naps Affect Memory and Brain Growth in Children Aged 3 to 5

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how sleep, memory, and brain development are connected in young children aged 36 to 54 months who regularly take naps. The study aims to explore how brain markers, memory changes during naps and overnight sleep, and sleep patterns evolve as children transition from napping. This research involves following children over time to better understand these relationships. Children in the study will participate every six months in three separate sessions per wave one to promote napping or wakefulness with memory tests, another for memory assessments, and a third for a brain MRI scan. Sleep will be monitored during naps using polysomnography and overnight using similar methods. Participants will wear activity watches and fitness trackers to record sleep and activity between sessions. This process will repeat for two to three waves. During the study, children will undergo memory tests before and after naps or wake periods, have brain scans, and wear sleep monitors at home overnight. Researchers will gather data on memory performance, sleep quality, and brain structure and function. Parents will assist with some monitoring devices and provide information about their childs sleep habits. The total involvement may last over a year, with assessments approximately every six months.

Longitudinal Investigation of Sleep, Memory, and Brain Development Across the Nap Transition