Psychological support to prevent child abandonment

Between 1% and 5% of school-aged children experience night terrors.

Should a child sleep the same amount as an adult? How can I tell if they are getting proper rest at night? These are common questions that cross the minds of parents during childhood development, as sleeping well not only affects a child's mood and school performance but also has long-term physical and emotional health implications.

Numerous studies confirm the impact of sleep problems—such as insomnia—during childhood. Along these lines, a new study conducted by neuroscientists at the University of Colorado has examined the relationship between sleep and the brain. The study concludes that sleeping fewer hours and going to bed later is linked to potentially harmful functional changes in brain areas important for coping with stress and controlling negative emotions.

Additionally, another notable conclusion is that children from lower-income families showed worse sleep routines; they go to bed later and sleep fewer hours. This suggests that they are at greater risk for mental health problems, stress, and poor academic performance.

Common Sleep Problems in Children

The American Academy for Sleep Medicine reminds us that, along with nutrition and exercise, quality sleep is one of the three pillars for a healthy life. However, it is common for children to face sleep problems at some point. These issues can vary in severity and duration, but knowing them is the first step in managing them properly. Some of the most common problems are:

- Insomnia. Many children have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep through the night. Insomnia can be linked to factors such as stress, anxiety, or poor sleep hygiene.
- Night terrors and nightmares. Night terrors are episodes of intense fear that occur during deep sleep and may cause a child to scream or thrash while still asleep. It is estimated that between 1% and 5% of school-aged children experience them.
- Sleep apnea.This disorder is characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep, which can lead to fragmented and non-restorative sleep. Symptoms may include loud snoring and gasping for breath.
- Sleepwalking. Children may get up and walk around while sleeping. Although generally harmless, it's important to ensure a safe environment to prevent accidents.
- Separation anxiety. Especially common in younger children, anxiety about being away from their parents can make it difficult for them to fall asleep.
- Irregular sleep habits. A lack of a consistent routine can make it hard to maintain a healthy sleep pattern.

In some cases, it may be necessary to seek advice from a pediatrician or sleep specialist to properly manage these difficulties.

In Spain, Children Also Go Hungry

Lack of access to a minimal caloric intake or relying on ultra-processed foods is associated with a 30% higher likelihood of poor general health, a 36% higher likelihood of being overweight, and a 12% higher likelihood of suffering from depression. In Spain, 33% of Spanish children and adolescents are at risk of poverty and social exclusion, according to the latest report by the Plataforma de Infancia.

This situation leads to food insecurity, which, as defined by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), involves a lack of "sufficient, safe, and nutritious food to maintain a healthy and active life." In our country, this circumstance has doubled since the COVID-19 pandemic.

But what are the consequences of food insecurity in children?

1. Health problems: These can include stunted growth, malnutrition, and obesity. Children may also develop chronic conditions like anemia or recurrent infections.

2. Impact on mental health: Food insecurity can manifest in behavioral issues, difficult social relationships, and can lead to stress, anxiety, or depression.

3. School performance: The lack of nutrients affects children's ability to concentrate, learn, and retain information.