Based on current understanding and research, yawning while sleeping is believed to be very rare for both children and adults.
While yawning is a common and involuntary action experienced frequently throughout the day, its occurrence during actual sleep is considered unusual. Scientists continue to research the exact reasons behind yawning, exploring various potential functions such as:
- Temperature regulation
- Social communication
- Increased alertness
However, the specific mechanisms that trigger yawning appear to be largely inactive when someone is in a sleep state. Therefore, observing a child yawn while they are demonstrably sleeping is not typically considered a normal or frequent event.
If you observe this consistently, it's always best to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying concerns, although it is often benign.
