The role of the family in forming healthy sleep habits in preschool children from the Roma community
Keywords:
Roma family, Roma children, sleep, preschool age, sleep habits, cultural characteristics, family environmentAbstract
Introduction: Sleep is a fundamental factor for the normal physical, emotional, and cognitive development of young children. In preschool age, adequate and high-quality sleep supports growth, concentration, and behavioral regulation, while the establishment of healthy sleep habits is strongly influenced by the family environment. Among Roma families, lifestyle, cultural traditions, and strong family connectedness play a significant role in shaping children’s sleep patterns. Aim: To investigate the role of the Roma family in the development of healthy sleep habits among preschool-aged children and to analyze the cultural and social factors that influence these habits. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted between 2023 and 2024 among 270 Roma parents with preschool-aged children. A researcher-designed questionnaire and semi-structured interviews were used to ensure accurate interpretation of the items by respondents. Data were analyzed using the statistical software package SPSS version 23.0. Results and Discussion: Roma cultural norms and family dynamics strongly shape children’s daily routines. A fixed sleep schedule is often absent: 26% of children go to bed after 22:00, 18.5% have no specific bedtime, and 8% fall asleep together with their parents. Half of the children wake up after 09:00, reflecting a generally late family rhythm. A positive finding is that 60% of the children take an afternoon nap, which supports their recovery and adaptation. For many Roma parents, adherence to restrictions or structured routines is not a culturally rooted value, and daily schedules are not emphasized in child-rearing. Conclusion: Promoting healthier sleep routines in Roma preschool children does not require altering Roma cultural identity but rather building upon its strengths-family cohesion, affection, and care. With the support of health mediators and professionals, it is possible to achieve a balance between traditional practices and the developmental needs of the child, enabling sleep to function as a key resource for health.
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