Why Your Teens Need More Sleep Than You Might Think

Let’s talk about sleep, shall we? I’m the type of parent who can’t help but cringe when I see little ones out and about late at night. I mean, seriously, who thinks it’s a great idea to have a toddler at a fancy restaurant at 10:45 p.m.? Or to let a 4-year-old nap off during a playdate at 9 a.m.? When I hear parents say their elementary school kids are going to bed at midnight, I wonder, “What are you thinking?”

Research consistently shows that sleep is crucial for our kids’ health and academic success. New findings indicate that teens who skimp on sleep are more likely to dabble in alcohol and drugs—yikes! The bottom line is that kids need way more sleep than adults do. Their bodies and brains are still growing, so it’s essential for parents to make sure they’re getting enough rest.

How Much Sleep Do Kids Really Need?

While most adults are okay with 7 to 8 hours of sleep, infants may need up to 18 hours a day! Most experts suggest that preschoolers should clock in around 12 to 13 hours, while school-aged kids need about 9 or 10. And yes, even though teens might protest, they need just as much sleep. If they have to wake up at 6:45 a.m. for school, they should really be asleep by 10 p.m.!

The Impact of Sleep on Academic Performance

Some high schools in the U.S. have recognized the relationship between sleep and academic performance and have started classes later. This simple change has led to improved GPAs for many students. The American Academy of Pediatrics even recommends that middle and high schools shouldn’t start before 8:30 a.m., yet around 40% of schools begin before 8:00 a.m. Talk about a sleep crisis!

Consequences of Sleep Deprivation

Lack of sleep can mess with your child’s mood, cognitive abilities, and even their weight. Tired kids often struggle to focus and retain information, and they might overeat due to hormonal fluctuations caused by fatigue. This leads them to reach for sugary snacks for a quick energy boost, which can result in weight gain.

My Experience with Sleep Schedules

I used to be quite strict about my kids’ sleep schedules. I didn’t budge on nap times or bedtimes, even on weekends. Sometimes, we’d skip social events if it meant my kids would miss out on their sleep. Sure, I faced some raised eyebrows and questions like, “Don’t you feel trapped at home?” But keeping a consistent sleep routine actually gave me more freedom. My kids fell asleep like clockwork every night, and it was a breeze. Once we got past the toddler phases of teething and nightmares, they slept soundly through the night.

Now that my kids are 7 and 11, they still stick to their bedtime routine, going to bed around 8 and 9 p.m., and they sleep until 7 a.m. Most importantly, we’re all better off for it. So, yes, I’m still the sleep drill sergeant, and it’s all about looking out for them.

Additional Resources

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Conclusion

In summary, prioritizing your teen’s sleep is essential for their health, mood, and academic performance. It’s worth sticking to a consistent bedtime routine to ensure they get the rest they need to thrive.