The Epworth Sleep Scale (ESS) was a test that was originally developed for adults and is widely used across the world, including here at the TMJ and Sleep Centre of North Texas. In fact, you can take it here. In 2015, Dr. Murray Johns, the creator of the original Epworth Sleep Scale developed a modified version for use with children and adolescents so that there could be a unified standard used across practitioners. We think it’s a good idea to have your children take it or to evaluate your children according to its criteria.
Most children above the age of about 9 can answer the questions without assistance, while children below that age can answer with help of an adult or an adult can answer for them based on observation.
Epworth Sleepiness Scale‐Children
How likely are you to doze off or fall asleep in the following situations, in contrast to feeling just tired? This refers to your usual way of life in recent times. Even if you have not done some of these things recently, think about how they would have affected you. Use the following scale to choose the most appropriate number for each situation.
O=would never doze or sleep
1=slight chance of dozing or sleeping
2=moderate chance of dozing or sleeping
3=high chance of dozing or sleeping.
- Sitting and reading 0 1 2 3
- Watching television 0 1 2 3
- Sitting inactive in a public place (for example, a movie theater or classroom) 0 1 2 3
- As a passenger in a car for an hour without a break 0 1 2 3
- Lying down to rest in the afternoon when circumstances permit 0 1 2 3
- Sitting and talking to someone 0 1 2 3
- Sitting quietly after lunch 0 1 2 3
- Doing homework or taking a test 0 1 2 3
SCORING:
To score the test, add up your points from each of the eight questions.
0-5 Lower Normal Daytime Sleepiness
6-10 Higher Normal Daytime Sleepiness
11-12 Mild Excessive Daytime Sleepiness
13-15 Moderate Excessive Daytime Sleepiness
16-24 Severe Excessive Daytime Sleepiness