Did your child get enough sleep last night? Kids need 9-10 hours of sleep a night. Here’s why:
- Their brains need sleep so that they can recharge.
- Their bodies needs sleep to allow their muscles, bones and skin to grow and fix any injuries.
Just like babies and toddlers, school-age children need a consistent bedtime and bedtime routine. Did you know that when kids get enough sleep:
- They will pay better attention in school.
- They will be healthier and happier.
- They will get along better with their friends, family and teachers (there are fewer behavior problems in the classroom).
6 ways to teach your children healthy sleep habits:
- 30 minutes before bedtime, turn off TV, computers and other electronic devices. (Computer and phone lights actually wake up the brain.)
- Keep all electronic devices under parental control.
- Keep the bedroom a cool, quiet and a relaxing environment.
- Read with them; listen to quiet music.
- Make sure they have had plenty of exercise during the day, but avoid lots of physical activity 2-3 hours before bedtime.
- Avoid caffeine in the afternoon and at night, to include sodas and large amounts of chocolate.
More Info:
- National Sleep Foundation: http://www.sleepfoundation.org/article/sleep-topics/children-and-sleep
- National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/sdd/howmuch.html