Which sleep pattern is most commonly observed in a term infant?

The sleep pattern that is most commonly observed in a term infant is characterized by a predominance of active sleep, which comprises about 70% of their total sleep time. Active sleep is also known as REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, during which infants are likely to show signs of movement, such as twitching or facial grimacing, as well as irregular breathing patterns. This phase of sleep plays a crucial role in brain development and is thought to be involved in learning and memory consolidation, which are vital for a developing infant.

Quiet sleep, on the other hand, corresponds to non-REM sleep and accounts for a smaller portion of an infant’s sleep cycle, approximately 30%. This stage is essential for physical restoration and growth, but it does not dominate infant sleep patterns compared to active sleep.

Understanding these proportions helps clarify normal sleep development in infants. This information can prove instrumental for caregivers in recognizing typical sleep behavior and distinguishing between normal sleep characteristics and potential sleep disorders.