With school back in session – or just about – make sure your kiddos are getting enough sleep.
Sleep affects both mental and physical development, and let’s face it: We all know how much harder life feels without enough shut-eye!
According to the National Sleep Foundation, a child spends an estimated 40 percent of his or her childhood asleep. (Sounds pretty good, parents, right?)
Preschool-aged children (3- to 5-year-olds) generally need 11-13 hours of sleep each night, while school-aged children (5-12-year-olds) need 10-11 hours each night.
Some tips to help children sleep well:
- Keep the bedtime and sleep schedule consistent.
- Do not allow televisions in children’s bedrooms.
- Keep bedrooms dark, cool and quiet.
- Avoid caffeine, especially before bedtime.
- Avoid television before bedtime.
For more information, visit the National Sleep Foundation.