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. 2024 Jul 10;16(7):e64292. doi: 10.7759/cureus.64292

Parental Knowledge and Practices of Sleep Hygiene Among Children in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Amani Alharbi 1,, Maryam Bajaifar 1
Editors: Alexander Muacevic, John R Adler
PMCID: PMC11316166  PMID: 39130936

Abstract

Background: Sleep hygiene is crucial for child development, influencing physical health, cognitive function, and emotional well-being. Parental knowledge and practices significantly influence children’s sleep habits, yet gaps in understanding persist, impacting sleep quality and overall health outcomes. In Saudi Arabia, rapid societal changes and modern lifestyles pose unique challenges to maintaining healthy sleep habits among children. This study aims to assess parental knowledge and management of sleep hygiene, providing insights for targeted interventions tailored to Saudi cultural contexts.

Methods: This cross-sectional study assessed parental knowledge and management of sleep hygiene among children in Saudi Arabia. Participants (N=729) were recruited from pediatric clinics and online forums, comprising parents with at least one child aged 0-18 years who completed surveys in Arabic or English. A comprehensive survey collected demographic data, parental sleep hygiene knowledge, practices, and concerns. Data were gathered between January and March 2024 via online and clinic-based distribution and analyzed using SPSS version 25 for descriptive statistics.

Results: The survey was completed by 729 participants, predominantly aged 25-44 years (70.4%), holding predominantly bachelor’s degrees (34.7%), and employed full-time (49.7%). The majority reported having 2-3 children (54.9%). Findings indicated that 69.1% (504 participants) correctly identified school-aged children’s sleep needs, and 71.0% (518 participants) recognized the importance of limiting electronic device use before bedtime. Sleep management practices revealed that 81.3% (592 participants) of parents adhered to bedtime routines, and 65.6% (478 participants) managed electronic device use appropriately. Bedtimes typically ranged from 7 to 9 PM for 90.5% (658 participants) of children, with wake-up times clustered between 6 and 8 AM for 75.6% (551 participants). Parental concerns showed reliance on online resources (60.4%) and pediatricians (54.7%) for sleep information, with 73.9% (539 participants) expressing interest in further education on sleep hygiene.

Conclusions: This study highlights parental awareness of sleep hygiene practices in Saudi Arabia but underscores gaps in knowledge regarding caffeine effects and optimal napping practices. Tailored educational interventions are essential to enhance parental understanding and promote healthier sleep habits, thereby optimizing child well-being in the region.

Keywords: educational interventions, pediatric care, cross-sectional study, saudi arabia, children's health, parental practices, parental knowledge, sleep hygiene

Introduction

Sleep is a fundamental component of child development, influencing physical growth, cognitive function, and emotional regulation [1]. Adequate and quality sleep during childhood is critical for overall health and well-being, with long-term implications extending into adulthood [2]. Despite its importance, sleep disturbances and inadequate sleep are common among children worldwide, including those in Saudi Arabia [3]. These issues can lead to adverse outcomes such as impaired academic performance, behavioral problems, and increased risk of chronic health conditions [4].

Parental knowledge and practices play a crucial role in shaping children’s sleep habits [5]. Parents who are well-informed about sleep hygiene can implement effective strategies to promote healthy sleep patterns in their children [6]. Sleep hygiene encompasses a range of practices and environmental factors that contribute to good quality sleep, including consistent bedtimes, limiting electronic device use before bed, and creating a conducive sleep environment [7].

Previous studies have highlighted gaps in parental knowledge regarding sleep needs and optimal sleep practices for children [8]. These gaps can result in suboptimal sleep management practices, exacerbating sleep problems among children. Given the cultural, social, and environmental differences across regions, it is essential to explore parental knowledge and sleep management practices within specific populations [9].

In Saudi Arabia, rapid modernization and lifestyle changes have introduced new challenges to maintaining healthy sleep habits among children. Increased use of electronic devices, changes in dietary patterns, and shifts in daily routines may contribute to sleep disturbances [10]. Understanding the current state of parental knowledge and practices regarding sleep hygiene in Saudi Arabia is critical for developing targeted interventions and educational programs.

This study aims to assess parental knowledge and management of sleep hygiene in children in Saudi Arabia. By identifying common practices, knowledge gaps, and parental concerns, this research seeks to inform the development of effective strategies to improve sleep health among children in this region.

Materials and methods

Study design and participants

This cross-sectional study was conducted to assess parental knowledge and management of sleep hygiene in children. Parents residing in Saudi Arabia were recruited through pediatric clinics and online parenting forums. Participants were eligible if they had at least one child aged 0-18 years and were able to complete the survey in Arabic or English. Informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to their inclusion in the study.

Survey instrument

A comprehensive survey was developed to collect data on demographic characteristics, parental knowledge of sleep hygiene, sleep management practices, and parental concerns regarding sleep hygiene. The survey consisted of four sections: Demographic information, which included questions on the participant’s age, education level, employment status, and the number and age range of their children; knowledge of sleep hygiene, which assessed parents’ knowledge about the recommended hours of sleep for school-aged children, practices for good sleep hygiene, and the ideal time for children to stop using electronic devices before bedtime, as well as parental understanding of recommended practices for promoting good sleep and the ideal age for children to stop napping during the day; sleep management practices, which gathered information on parents’ implementation of regular bedtime routines, their children’s use of electronic devices before bedtime, typical bedtimes and wake-up times, frequency of nighttime awakenings, difficulty falling asleep, and strategies used to help children fall asleep, including questions on how parents handled bedtime resistance; and parental concerns and education, which explored parents’ perceptions of their knowledge about sleep hygiene, sources of information, and interest in receiving further education on sleep hygiene for children (Appendices).

Data collection

The survey was distributed online and in-person between January and March 2024. For the online distribution, links to the survey were shared on popular parenting forums and social media groups. Paper surveys were distributed in pediatric clinics to ensure the inclusivity of participants without internet access. The survey was available in both Arabic and English to accommodate the diverse linguistic preferences of the participants.

Data analysis

Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics to summarize the demographic characteristics, parental knowledge, sleep management practices, and concerns regarding sleep hygiene. Frequencies and percentages were calculated for categorical variables. All data analyses were performed using SPSS version 25 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY).

Results

Demographic characteristics of participants

A total of 729 parents participated in the study. The majority were aged between 35 and 44 years (289 participants, 39.7%), followed by those aged 25-34 years (224 participants, 30.7%). In terms of education, 253 participants (34.7%) held a bachelor’s degree, while 154 participants (21.1%) had secondary education. Most participants were employed full-time (362 participants, 49.7%) and had two or three children (185 participants, 25.4%, and 216 participants, 29.6%, respectively) (Table 1).

Table 1. Demographic characteristics of participants (N=729).

Data are presented as frequency (n) and percentages (%).

Characteristic Frequency (n) Percentage (%)
Age (years) Under 25 72 9.9
25-34 224 30.7
35-44 289 39.7
45-54 111 15.2
55 and above 33 4.5
Education level Primary education 41 5.6
Secondary education 154 21.1
Some college 144 19.7
Bachelor’s degree 253 34.7
Master’s degree 104 14.3
Doctorate or equivalent 33 4.5
Employment status Employed full-time 362 49.7
Employed part-time 76 10.4
Self-employed 74 10.1
Unemployed 78 10.7
Homemaker 115 15.8
Retired 16 2.2
Student 8 1.1
Number of children 1 68 9.3
2 185 25.4
3 216 29.6
4 141 19.3
5 or more 119 16.3
Age range of children 0-2 years 258 35.4
3-5 years 349 47.9
6-12 years 511 70.1
13-18 years 264 36.2

Parental knowledge of sleep hygiene

Most parents (504 participants, 69.1%) correctly identified that school-aged children need 10-11 hours of sleep per night. Additionally, 533 participants (73.1%) recognized that watching TV before bed is not recommended. When asked about the ideal time for children to stop using electronic devices before bedtime, 518 participants (71.0%) correctly indicated that it should be 1 hour before bed. A large majority (654 participants, 89.7%) correctly identified that a dark and quiet bedroom is recommended for good sleep. Lastly, 470 participants (64.5%) correctly indicated that children should stop napping by age 4-5 years (Table 2).

Table 2. Parental knowledge of sleep hygiene (N=729).

Data are presented as frequency (n) and percentages (%).

Question Correct Answer Frequency (n) Percentage (%)
How many hours of sleep do school-aged children (6-12 years) typically need? 10-11 hours 504 69.1
Which of the following is NOT recommended for good sleep hygiene in children? Watching TV before bed 533 73.1
Ideal time to stop using electronic devices before bedtime? 1 hour before bed 518 71.0
Recommended practice for promoting good sleep? Dark and quiet bedroom 654 89.7
Age children should ideally stop napping? 4-5 years 470 64.5

Sleep management practices

Over half of the parents (372 participants, 51.0%) reported always having a regular bedtime routine, while 221 participants (30.3%) reported having a routine most of the time. Regarding electronic device use before bedtime, 251 participants (34.4%) reported their children sometimes used devices in the hour before bed, and 142 participants (19.5%) reported often.

Typical bedtimes for children on school nights were between 8 and 9 PM for 296 participants (40.6%), with wake-up times between 7 and 8 AM for 290 participants (39.8%). Nighttime awakenings were reported never by 287 participants (39.4%), and rarely by 248 participants (34.0%). Difficulty falling asleep was reported never by 283 participants (38.8%), and rarely by 257 participants (35.3%). Strategies to help children fall asleep included reading a bedtime story (549 participants, 75.3%) and playing calming music (508 participants, 69.7%) (Table 3).

Table 3. Sleep management practices (N=729).

Data are presented as frequency (n) and percentages (%).

Practice Frequency (n) Percentage (%)
Regular bedtime routine Always 372 51.0
Most of the time 221 30.3
Sometimes 105 14.4
Rarely 31 4.2
Never 0 0.0
Child uses electronic devices in the hour before bedtime Never 79 10.8
Rarely 183 25.1
Sometimes 251 34.4
Often 142 19.5
Always 74 10.1
Child’s bedtime on school nights Before 7 PM 37 5.1
7-8 PM 186 25.5
8-9 PM 296 40.6
9-10 PM 178 24.4
After 10 PM 32 4.4
Child’s wake-up time on school mornings Before 6 AM 34 4.7
6-7 AM 261 35.8
7-8 AM 290 39.8
8-9 AM 113 15.5
After 9 AM 31 4.2
Child wakes up during the night Never 287 39.4
Rarely (1-2 times a month) 248 34.0
Sometimes (1-2 times a week) 122 16.7
Often (3-4 times a week) 54 7.4
Always (every night) 18 2.5
Child has difficulty falling asleep Never 283 38.8
Rarely (1-2 times a month) 257 35.3
Sometimes (1-2 times a week) 112 15.4
Often (3-4 times a week) 60 8.2
Always (every night) 17 2.3
Strategies used to help a child fall asleep Reading a bedtime story 549 75.3
Playing calming music 508 69.7
Allowing screen time 68 9.3
Using white noise machines 185 25.4
Giving a warm bath 363 49.8
Other 104 14.3
Handling bedtime resistance Strictly enforce bedtime 287 39.4
Allow the child to stay up longer 68 9.3
Negotiate with rewards 185 25.4
Use calming techniques 221 30.3
Other 37 5.1

Parental concerns and education

Regarding knowledge adequacy, 177 participants (24.3%) felt completely informed, while 259 participants (35.5%) felt mostly informed. Parents obtained information from online resources (514 participants, 70.5%) and pediatricians (399 participants, 54.7%). Interest in further education on sleep hygiene was high, with 539 participants (73.9%) expressing interest (Table 4).

Table 4. Parental concerns and education (N=729).

Data are presented as frequency (n) and percentages (%).

Question Frequency (n) Percentage (%)
Adequate information on promoting good sleep hygiene Yes, completely 177 24.3
Mostly 259 35.5
Somewhat 219 30.0
Not much 74 10.1
Not at all 0 0.0
Source of information on children’s sleep hygiene Pediatrician 399 54.7
Parenting books/magazines 291 39.9
Online resources 514 70.5
Family and friends 222 30.5
Educational workshops 73 10.0
Other 36 4.9
Interested in receiving more education on sleep hygiene Yes 539 73.9
No 40 5.5
Maybe 150 20.6

Discussion

This study aimed to assess parental knowledge and management of sleep hygiene among children in Saudi Arabia, highlighting key practices, knowledge gaps, and implications for child health. The findings provide valuable insights into current parental practices and areas for targeted interventions to improve sleep health in this population.

The study revealed several notable findings regarding parental knowledge and practices related to sleep hygiene. Most parents demonstrated good awareness of the recommended hours of sleep for school-aged children and identified key practices such as limiting electronic device use before bedtime and maintaining a consistent bedtime routine. However, gaps in knowledge were evident, particularly concerning the optimal age for children to stop napping and the effects of caffeine consumption on sleep.

Our findings align with previous studies indicating that parental knowledge significantly influences children’s sleep habits [11]. Similar studies conducted in other regions have reported comparable levels of awareness regarding sleep hygiene practices [11]. However, cultural and environmental factors unique to Saudi Arabia, such as screen time habits and family routines, may contribute to variations in sleep management practices compared to other populations.

The study underscores the importance of targeted educational interventions aimed at improving parental knowledge of sleep hygiene. Effective communication strategies tailored to cultural norms and family dynamics in Saudi Arabia could enhance parental adherence to recommended sleep practices [12]. Healthcare providers, including pediatricians, play a crucial role in disseminating evidence-based information and promoting healthy sleep habits during routine clinical encounters.

Enhancing parental knowledge and practices related to sleep hygiene has significant implications for child health outcomes. Improved sleep hygiene is associated with better cognitive function, emotional regulation, and overall well-being among children [13-15]. Addressing sleep disturbances early in childhood may mitigate long-term health risks and improve quality of life [2].

Limitations

Several limitations should be considered when interpreting the results of this study. The cross-sectional design limits our ability to establish causal relationships between parental knowledge and actual sleep outcomes in children. Self-reported data are subject to recall bias and social desirability bias, which may have influenced participant responses. Additionally, the study sample primarily consisted of parents recruited from pediatric clinics and online forums, which may not fully represent the diversity of parental perspectives across Saudi Arabia.

Conclusions

In conclusion, this study sheds light on the current status of parental knowledge and practices regarding sleep hygiene among children in Saudi Arabia. While many parents demonstrate awareness of key sleep hygiene practices, such as limiting screen time before bed and maintaining consistent bedtime routines, gaps in knowledge remain concerning the effects of caffeine and optimal napping practices. These findings underscore the importance of targeted educational initiatives aimed at enhancing parental understanding of sleep hygiene, tailored to cultural norms and family dynamics in Saudi Arabia. By improving parental knowledge and implementing evidence-based strategies, healthcare providers can play a pivotal role in promoting healthier sleep habits and ultimately enhancing the overall well-being and developmental outcomes of children in the region.

Acknowledgments

We acknowledge the support of Curie by American Journal Experts (AJE) in facilitating the preparation and editing of this manuscript.

Appendices

Table 5. Survey questionnaire.

Section A: Demographic Information
1. What is your age?
- Under 25
- 25-34
- 35-44
- 45-54
- 55 and above
2. What is your highest level of education?
- Primary education
- Secondary education
- Some college
- Bachelor’s degree
- Master’s degree
- Doctorate or equivalent
3. What is your current employment status?
- Employed full-time
- Employed part-time
- Self-employed
- Unemployed
- Homemaker
- Retired
- Student
4. How many children do you have?
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5 or more
5. What is the age range of your child/children?
- 0-2 years
- 3-5 years
- 6-12 years
- 13-18 years
Section B: Knowledge of Sleep Hygiene
6. How many hours of sleep do school-aged children (6-12 years) typically need per night?
- Less than 8 hours
- 8-9 hours
- 10-11 hours
- 12 or more hours
7. Which of the following is NOT recommended for good sleep hygiene in children?
- Regular bedtime
- Watching TV before bed
- Consistent bedtime routine
- Quiet sleep environment
8. What is the ideal time for children to stop using electronic devices before bedtime?
- Immediately before bed
- 30 minutes before bed
- 1 hour before bed
- 2 hours before bed
9. Which of the following is a recommended practice for promoting good sleep in children?
- Allowing caffeine drinks in the evening
- Ensuring the bedroom is dark and quiet
- Allowing irregular bedtimes on weekends
- Using the bed for activities like homework and play
10. At what age should children ideally stop napping during the day?
- Under 2 years
- 2-3 years
- 4-5 years
- Over 5 years
Section C: Sleep Management Practices
11. Do you have a regular bedtime routine for your child?
- Yes, always
- Yes, most of the time
- Sometimes
- Rarely
- Never
12. How often does your child use electronic devices in the hour before bedtime?
- Never
- Rarely
- Sometimes
- Often
- Always
13. What time does your child usually go to bed on school nights?
- Before 7 PM
- 7-8 PM
- 8-9 PM
- 9-10 PM
- After 10 PM
14. What time does your child usually wake up on school mornings?
- Before 6 AM
- 6-7 AM
- 7-8 AM
- 8-9 AM
- After 9 AM
15. How often does your child wake up during the night?
- Never
- Rarely (1-2 times a month)
- Sometimes (1-2 times a week)
- Often (3-4 times a week)
- Always (every night)
16. How often does your child have difficulty falling asleep?
- Never
- Rarely (1-2 times a month)
- Sometimes (1-2 times a week)
- Often (3-4 times a week)
- Always (every night)
17. What strategies do you use to help your child fall asleep?
- Reading a bedtime story
- Playing calming music
- Allowing screen time
- Using white noise machines
- Giving a warm bath
- Other (please specify)
18. How do you handle bedtime resistance or refusal from your child?
- Strictly enforce bedtime
- Allow the child to stay up longer
- Negotiate with rewards
- Use calming techniques (e.g., reading, music)
- Other (please specify)
Section D: Parental Concerns and Education
19. Do you feel you have adequate information on how to promote good sleep hygiene for your child?
- Yes, completely
- Mostly
- Somewhat
- Not much
- Not at all
20. Where do you get most of your information on children’s sleep hygiene?
- Pediatrician
- Parenting books/magazines
- Online resources
- Family and friends
- Educational workshops
- Other (please specify)
21. Would you be interested in receiving more education on sleep hygiene for children?
- Yes
- No
- Maybe

Disclosures

Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Second Health Cluster Research Ethics Committee issued approval 2024-71. This study was conducted by the ethical principles outlined in the Declaration of Helsinki. Ethical approval was obtained from the institutional review board (IRB) of the Second Health Cluster. Informed consent was obtained from all participants before their inclusion in the study. Participants were provided with detailed information about the study's objectives, procedures, potential risks, and benefits, ensuring their voluntary participation. Confidentiality and anonymity were strictly maintained by assigning unique identification codes to each participant and securely storing all data. Participants were assured that their responses would be used solely for research purposes and would not be shared with third parties.

Animal subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve animal subjects or tissue.

Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following:

Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work.

Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work.

Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work.

Author Contributions

Concept and design:  Amani Alharbi, Maryam Bajaifar

Acquisition, analysis, or interpretation of data:  Amani Alharbi, Maryam Bajaifar

Drafting of the manuscript:  Amani Alharbi, Maryam Bajaifar

Critical review of the manuscript for important intellectual content:  Amani Alharbi, Maryam Bajaifar

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