Sleep and human cognitive development

Emerging studies across learning domains have shed light on mechanisms underlying sleep's benefits during numerous developmental periods. In this conceptual review, we survey recent studies of sleep and cognition across infancy, childhood, and adolescence. By summarizing recent findings and integrating across studies with disparate approaches, we provide a novel understanding of sleep's role in human cognitive function. Collectively, these studies point to an interrelation between brain development, sleep, and cognition. Moreover, we point to gaps in our understanding, which inform the agenda for future research in developmental and sleep science. (C) 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Emerging studies have highlighted the benefits of sleep during various developmental periods. Recent research on sleep and cognition provides a novel understanding of the role of sleep in human cognitive function, indicating an interrelation between brain development, sleep, and cognition. Gaps in current understanding have also been identified to inform future research agendas in developmental and sleep science.