Understanding Kids' Sleep Science: Fun, Facts & Bedtime Tips – EP 22 w/ Wendy Bjazevich
In Episode 22 of REM Reward, host Ryan sits down with Wendy to dive into the world of children’s sleep. They explore what inspired Wendy to write specifically for young audiences, how she balances accurate science with playful storytelling, and they unpack the four stages of sleep in kid‑friendly terms. The conversation covers why sleep is especially crucial for children’s mood, learning, growth, and behavior—and sheds light on lesser-known sleep disorders like sleep apnea and narcolepsy in kids. Wendy also shares surprises from her research, including global sleep customs and bedtime routines, and closes with simple, practical tips for families aiming to improve bedtime habits—all anchored around the key takeaway she hopes listeners will remember.
Wendy Bjazevich is a passionate children’s science author known for making complex topics accessible and engaging. She holds a B.S. in Sociology and Health Education from Brigham Young University and a Master’s in Forensic Sciences from George Washington University. Wendy is the creative mind behind Exoplanets, the Green and Small series, and most recently Sleep: A Kid’s Guide to the Science of Slumber, a richly illustrated and fact-filled exploration of sleep’s wonders. She lives with her husband and six children, bringing both scientific insight and real‑world parenting experience to her work
