Pediatric Epworth Sleepiness Scale Calculator
Assess daytime sleepiness in children and adolescents (ESS-CHAD) with this validated questionnaire
Pediatric Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS-CHAD)
Instructions for Parents/Guardians
Rate how likely your child is to doze off or fall asleep in the following situations, not just feeling tired. Consider your child's usual behavior over the past few weeks.
Age Range: This assessment is designed for children and adolescents (typically ages 6-18).
1. Sitting and reading
While doing homework or reading for pleasure
2. Watching TV or a video
During leisure time at home
3. Sitting in a classroom in the morning
During lessons or class activities
4. As a passenger in a bus or car for half an hour
During school transport or family trips
5. Lying down to rest or take a nap in the afternoon
When circumstances permit resting
6. Sitting and talking to someone
During conversations with family or friends
7. Sitting quietly alone after lunch
During quiet time after meals
8. Sitting and eating a meal
During breakfast, lunch, or dinner
ESS-CHAD Score & Interpretation
Score Breakdown
Reading: 0
Watching TV: 0
Classroom: 0
Bus/Car: 0
Lying down: 0
Talking: 0
After lunch: 0
Eating meal: 0
Clinical Recommendation
Your child's sleepiness levels are within normal range. Continue maintaining healthy sleep habits and good sleep hygiene.
Academic Impact: No expected impact on academic performance
Pediatric Sleep Guidelines & Age-Appropriate Sleep Needs
Recommended Sleep Duration by Age
6-12 years: 9-12 hours per night
13-18 years: 8-10 hours per night
School-age children: Consistent bedtime routine essential
Adolescents: Natural circadian rhythm shifts later
Signs of Healthy Sleep in Children
• Falls asleep within 15-30 minutes of bedtime
• Wakes up naturally or with minimal prompting
• Alert and attentive during school hours
• Good mood and emotional regulation throughout the day
Warning Signs Requiring Evaluation
• Consistent difficulty staying awake in class
• Falling asleep during active periods or meals
• Significant decline in academic performance
• Behavioral problems related to tiredness
• Loud snoring or breathing pauses during sleep
ESS-CHAD Score Interpretation
Common Pediatric Sleep Disorders
Pediatric Sleep Apnea
Often related to enlarged tonsils/adenoids
Narcolepsy
Can onset during childhood/adolescence
ADHD & Sleep
Often comorbid with sleep disorders
Delayed Sleep Phase
Common in adolescents
Depression/Anxiety
Often overlooked in children
Academic Performance Impact
Reduced attention and concentration
Impaired memory consolidation
Increased behavioral problems
Lower test scores and grades
Social interaction difficulties
Understanding the Pediatric Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS-CHAD)
What is ESS-CHAD?
The Epworth Sleepiness Scale for Children and Adolescents (ESS-CHAD) is a validated adaptation of the adult ESS, specifically designed for pediatric populations. It uses age-appropriate situations that children and adolescents commonly encounter.
Key Differences from Adult ESS
- •Classroom setting replaces work situations
- •School transport instead of driving scenarios
- •Meal times and family contexts included
- •Age-appropriate timeframes (30 minutes vs 1 hour)
Clinical Significance
Research Applications:
- • Academic performance correlation studies
- • Pediatric sleep disorder screening
- • ADHD and sleep relationship assessment
- • Treatment outcome monitoring
Important Considerations
- Developmental factors: Sleep needs change with age and puberty
- School schedules: Early start times can impact natural sleep patterns
- Technology impact: Screen time affects sleep quality in children
- Family dynamics: Household sleep habits influence child's sleep
💡 Important: ESS-CHAD scores show strong correlation with academic achievement, making this tool valuable for educational and clinical settings.
⚠️ Pediatric Medical Disclaimer
This Pediatric Epworth Sleepiness Scale calculator is for educational and screening purposes only. It should not replace professional pediatric medical evaluation or diagnosis. Sleep disorders in children can significantly impact development, academic performance, and overall health. If your child's ESS-CHAD score is elevated or you have concerns about excessive daytime sleepiness, consult with a pediatrician or pediatric sleep medicine specialist. Factors such as growth, development, medications, and underlying medical conditions should be considered in professional evaluation. Parents should monitor their child's sleep patterns and seek professional guidance for persistent sleep concerns.