Sleep Consultant Course of Study

IMS511 Science of Sleep

Syllabus

Course name: Science of Sleep

Course code: IMS511

Course description:

In this course, students learn about the neurobiology of sleep and wakefulness, how sleep is regulated by the body, and the role circadian rhythms play in sleep and health. The course covers children's sleep patterns, how sleep changes with age, and the different needs of newborns, infants, toddlers, and young children. Additionally, the course covers the nature of dreams, and the importance of encouraging healthy sleep habits in children.

This course introduces the fundamental concepts related to the neurobiology of sleep. The neuroscience of sleep is a highly complex subject! Scientists dedicate years to studying how the brain works! 

The course only covers important topics that are needed to understand children’s sleep patterns. This fundamental knowledge helps sleep consultants answer some of the common questions parents have. This course offers clear and simple explanations that can be used in practical situations. Students will be able to explain why babies wake often and how to support healthy sleep habits in children of different ages.

Course content:

  • Neurobiology of sleep and wakefulness
  • Sleep-wake regulation
  • Circadian rhythms and how they affect sleep and health
  • An in-depth look into children's sleep
  • How sleep patterns change with age
  • Newborns and Infants Sleep
  • Toddlers sleep
  • Young children sleep
  • Pubertal development and sleep
  • Sleep and dreams
  • Why should we encourage healthy sleep habits?
  • 4 practice quizzes (not graded)
  • 2 practical exercises (not graded)

Assessment

  • 1 final test
  • 2 case study exams

Grading system

Pass/Fail based on performance in the final test and the case study exams.

Prerequisites

This course is designed to be accessible to all students. No prior knowledge or experience is required.

References:

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