HOW MUCH SLEEP DO SCHOOL AGED CHILDREN REALLY NEED?

Written by Olivia Arrow

Sleep is an essential aspect of a child’s overall health and well-being. For school-aged children, it plays a crucial role in their physical, cognitive, and emotional development. However, with the demands of school, extracurricular activities, and screen time, many children are not getting the recommended amount of sleep. In this article, we will discuss the importance of sleep for school-aged children and how much sleep they need to thrive.

Why is sleep important for school-aged children?

Sleep is essential for children of all ages, but it becomes even more critical during school-aged years. This is because sleep helps children to grow and develop both physically and mentally. During sleep, the body produces growth hormones that are essential for bone and muscle growth. It also allows the brain to rest and recharge, which is vital for learning and memory consolidation.

In addition to physical growth and cognitive development, sleep also plays a crucial role in emotional regulation. School-aged children go through significant changes in their emotions and behaviour, and adequate sleep helps to regulate these changes. Lack of sleep can lead to irritability, mood swings, and difficulty managing emotions, which can affect a child’s ability to function in school and other areas of life.

How much sleep does a school-aged child need?

The National Sleep Foundation recommends that school-aged children (6-13 years old) get between 9-11 hours of sleep each night. However, the exact amount of sleep a child needs can vary based on individual factors such as activity level, health, and growth rate. Some children may require more or less sleep within the recommended range.

It is essential to note that sleep needs change as children get older. For example, a six-year-old may need closer to 11 hours of sleep, while a 13-year-old may only need nine hours. It is crucial to monitor your child’s sleep habits and adjust their bedtime accordingly to ensure they are getting enough rest.

Tips for helping school-aged children get enough sleep

Establish a bedtime routine: A consistent bedtime routine can help signal to a child’s body that it is time to wind down and prepare for sleep. This routine can include activities such as reading, taking a bath, or listening to calming music.

Limit screen time before bed: The blue light emitted from screens can suppress the production of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep. It is recommended to turn off screens at least an hour before bedtime to allow the body to produce enough melatonin for a good night’s sleep.

Create a comfortable sleep environment: A dark, quiet, and cool bedroom is ideal for promoting sleep. Make sure your child’s bedroom is free of distractions and comfortable for them to rest in.

Encourage regular exercise: Physical activity can help improve the quality of sleep and help children fall asleep faster. Encourage your child to participate in activities they enjoy, such as sports or playing outside.

Limit caffeine intake: Caffeine is a stimulant that can interfere with a child’s ability to fall and stay asleep. Avoid giving children caffeine-containing beverages such as soda or energy drinks, especially close to bedtime.

Signs that your child may not be getting enough sleep

It is essential to monitor your child’s sleep habits and look out for signs that they may not be getting enough sleep. Some common signs include:

– Difficulty waking up in the morning

– Irritability, mood swings, and behaviour changes

– Difficulty concentrating and paying attention

– Falling asleep during the day, especially in school

– Hyperactivity and restlessness

– Frequent headaches or stomach aches

If you notice any of these signs, it may be a sign that your child is not getting enough sleep. It is essential to address any sleep issues promptly to ensure your child is getting the rest they need to thrive.

The consequences of not getting enough sleep

Not getting enough sleep can have significant consequences for school-aged children. Some of these consequences include:

– Difficulty learning and retaining information: Sleep is crucial for memory consolidation, and without enough rest, children may struggle to learn and remember new information.

– Poor academic performance: When children are tired, they may have difficulty concentrating, paying attention, and staying focused, all of which can affect their academic performance.

– Mood and behaviour changes: Lack of sleep can lead to irritability, mood swings, and behavioural issues, making it challenging for children to regulate their emotions and behaviours.

– Health problems: Chronic sleep deprivation in children has been linked to health problems such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.

In conclusion, sleep is a vital aspect of a school-aged child’s overall health and well-being. It is recommended for children to get between 9-11 hours of sleep each night, but the exact amount may vary based on individual needs. It is essential for parents to monitor their child’s sleep habits and establish healthy sleep habits and routines to ensure they are getting enough rest. By prioritising sleep, we can help our children thrive in school and in life.