Effects of short daytime nap on neurocognitive functioning and daytime behavior in primary school children
Sleep plays a vital role in development and well-being. Previous studies consistently showed that sleep loss is associated with an array of negative outcomes such as poor academic performance, poor daytime functioning, impaired memory and also increased hyperactivity and inattentive behaviors. However, sleep deprivation is a very common sleep problem in primary school students with a large proportion of the students do not acquire enough sleep. Due to the heavy burden of school work and after school activities, they often have late bedtime. Meanwhile, the school start time is relatively quite early, resulting in a shorter sleep duration among children, especially during weekdays.
In this study, we aim to investigate the effects of napping on children’s behavioural and cognitive performance at several time points (after the first day of a nap, post two weeks and post three months) between the experimental group (children who napped) and control group using parent-report questionnaires, children’s self-report questionnaires, and behavioural tests.
Primary school students
Children and their parents who enroll in the study will be required to participate in the following tasks before and after the intervention:
